How to Find the Right Contractor for Your Home Improvement Project

Finding the perfect contractor can be a headache. It’s common to hear stories of people getting scammed – sometimes out of hundreds to thousands of dollars – by disreputable contractors posing as high-quality professionals. Subpar work, outrageous pricing, or questionable practices are all problems that arise with the wrong contractors.

This might make you stressed and wary to take on a big home improvement project, but not all hope is lost. Knowledge (and therefore research) is power in this situation. To help make your process stress-free and ensure you get the best possible work done, we’ve put together some tips. By the end of this article, you will feel confident choosing any type of contractor for your next home reno.

Architects

Whether you’re looking to add an addition or remodel, an architect can help create a comprehensive plan. They are the masterminds behind gorgeous interior and exterior and they design, plan, and help oversee the construction.

When choosing an architect, chose one whose style matches your own and review their portfolio. You’ll also want to prepare a list of what you need and want, your budget, and what you can realistically do without before getting the opinion of a professional.

Architects fees can vary tremendously, but they tend to be high. In fact, The average cost of an architect is over $5,000 USD. To find out pricing, contact local architects for quotes, call their references, and if you can, visit previous jobs they did.

Roofers

Repairing or replacing a roof is a dangerous and expensive job that shouldn’t be done by a novice. Hiring a professional is the best way to avoid an accident and prevent your house from water damage.

The vetting process should be taken seriously, as roofing scams are all too common. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. More than any other profession, you should lean towards a roofing company that has been around a long time and can show you work that they did five to 10 years ago.

The cost of getting your roof repaired or replaced varies, depending on the type of roofing and its size. Contact your local roofing companies and compare prices. Consulting your neighbors who have had recent roof work done is also a great way to receive recommendations.

General Contractors

A jack of all trades is perhaps the best way to describe a general contractor. They can fix all of your basic household mishaps. Typically, they do not specialize in one thing or have any special certifications. If you are on a shoestring budget, general contractors are a fantastic option. According to Angie’s List, they tend to charge anywhere between $45 and $85 per hour, though that may increase depending on where you live and how experienced the contractor is. However, odds are a handyman could solve many problems around your home at a fraction of the cost of a specialized pro.

To find a reputable general contractor in your area, ask friends, family and coworkers for any recommendations or search online, being sure to check out reviews and request quotes.

Carpenters

Whether you need a new deck, a luxury closet built, or the final touches on your bathroom remodel complete, a professional carpenter will do a better job than any DIY job you do. Not only will it look better, but it’ll function better and also longer.

Carpenters charge between $35 and $100 per hour. Online reviews and local recommendations are the best way to find a reputable carpenter. You’ll also want to see previous work as carpentry is as much of a visual trade as it is a functional one.

Electricians

Lighting is one of the most important aspects of any home. Whether you’re building your home or experiencing electrical issues, an electrician is essential. Anything to do with electrical wires is best left to trained professionals.

Electrician’s typically charge between $40 and $100 per hour with a call-out fee or first-hour rate of $75 to $125. To find a good electrician, consult your neighbors, friends, and family members and get quotes from at least three local electrical companies.

Plumbers

Having a minor or major water leak can be a huge headache. If not tended to quickly, it can cause damage and eventually mold. A plumber is someone you often have to hire in an emergency, so you won’t have much time to search around if you leave it until an issues arises.

The average plumber costs between $45 and $200 per hour. Read online reviews and call around ahead of time. Then write down the phone number and stick it to your fridge for when an emergency happens.

Painters

No matter your painting needs, professional painters can be a big help. Although interior painting seems like an easy DIY job, that’s not always the case. It’s time-consuming and easy to make mistakes that affect the final look. Hiring a professional will ensure that you’re happy with the outcome. They can also help you with more complex painting jobs, including high ceilings, exterior painting, and painting things with nooks and crannies, like vintage doors and cabinets.

Professional painters start as low as $40 per hour and soar as high as $84 per hour. Check out local listings and reviews before deciding on who to hire. Also consider stopping by your local paint retailer to ask for recommendations, as they’ll know the best professionals in the area.

Finding great home improvement professionals is time-consuming, but important. Search online for reviews, consult friends and neighbors, look at portfolios, and ask questions in preparation of a project. All of these things will help save you time, money, and a big old headache in the end.