The process of building or renovating a home can be both exciting and daunting. Choosing a construction company is one of your most important decisions during this process. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. According to the National Association of Home Builders, the average cost of a new home is $360,900. Given this significant investment, you’ll want to be sure to select a company that will not only do a great job but also one that you can trust.
Here are some things to look for when hiring a construction company.
1. A Positive Reputation
The first thing you should do when narrowing down your choices is research each company’s reputation. Read online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family who have had recent positive experiences with construction companies. Because your home is such a big investment, you’ll want to be sure to work with a company that has a proven track record of success.
Some people also feel more comfortable working with a larger, well-established company. On the other hand, some prefer the personal touch that comes with working with a smaller company. Consider your own preferences and then research each company accordingly. Their reputation should be one of your top priorities.
2. Clear Communication
You want to ensure you’re working with a company that communicates well. During your initial consultation, pay attention to how the representative from the construction company speaks to you. Do they seem organized and prepared? Can they answer your questions in a way that makes you feel comfortable? If not, move on to another company.
Because the construction process can be lengthy, it’s essential to work with a company that will keep you updated throughout the duration of the project. You should feel confident that they will keep you in the loop and never leave you in the dark. Ask them how they typically communicate with their clients and what methods they will use to keep you updated. You can also ask to speak to some of their past clients to better understand their communication styles.
3. A Detailed Contract
Before signing on with a construction company, review the contract in detail. All agreements should be in writing and outline the project’s scope of work, timeline, and budget. If anything is unclear or you have questions about any part of the contract, ask for clarification before signing.
One of the document’s most important parts is the fees and payment schedule. Because construction projects can get expensive, you’ll want to be sure that you’re comfortable with the company’s fee structure. Communicate well with the construction company accountants about what is being charged, when fees are due, and how they accept payments to ensure no surprises down the road.
4. License and Insurance
For a construction company to operate legally, it must have both a license and insurance. Ask to see proof of both before hiring a company. You can also check with your local Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau to confirm that the company is licensed and insured. Insurance is critical in case something goes wrong during the construction process. You could be held liable if a company does not have insurance and someone gets hurt on the job.
You should also verify that the company has workers’ compensation insurance. This type of insurance protects employees if they get hurt while working on your property. If a company does not have this coverage and an employee is injured, you could be held liable for their medical expenses.
5. Flexibility
Building or renovating a home is rarely easy—there are always unforeseen complications and delays. When interviewing potential construction companies, ask about their experience dealing with unexpected issues that arise during projects. The best companies will be able to adapt quickly and find solutions that work for everyone involved.
You can also ask the company for references from past clients. These people can give you first-hand accounts of what it was like to work with the company and how they handled any problems. If a company is unwilling or unable to provide references, that’s a red flag. You want to be sure you’re working with a company with your best interests.
Hiring a construction company is a big decision—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you know what to look for. By keeping these five factors in mind, you can rest assured knowing you’re working with a reputable, reliable company that will get the job done right. You can transform your vision into reality with the right team on your side.
