Finding the right contractor for a kitchen remodel might appear like an intimidating task, but it doesn’t have to be. A few easy steps often means the difference between complete confidence in a kitchen contractors los angeles and doubts that cause sleepless nights.
Require Referrals.
Hands down, person to person is the best way to find a qualified professional to tackle the work. Ask relatives, friends and neighbors who they experienced good experience with. Also ask what made it a confident experience, the way the contractor handled problems and whether she or he would use the same contractor again.
Check out Credentials.
With recommendations in hand, do some research, whether with a phone call or a trip to the remodeler’s website. Determine if the contractor holds all the mandatory licenses from the state and local municipalities, as well as designations from any professional associations like the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) or the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB). Any remodeling professional worth his / her salt will have committed to the coursework and passed rigorous tests to be able to earn a specific certification. Be aware, however, that certifications aren’t created equal.
Interview Candidates.
Narrow down the set of contenders, and setup meetings. Is there a magic range of contractors you should interview?
A list of questions to ask potential contractors is available on NARI’s website. What sort of contractor answers questions is really important, but communication goes both ways.
Chemistry also weighs heavily into the selection of a contractor. “That is a longstanding relationship. You must trust the person you’re dealing with.
Check References.
Once a rapport has been established, ask to see a few of the contractor’s projects. If indeed they meet with approval, request references and then call to verify them.
Get it in Writing.
After zeroing in using one contractor who seems right for the job, check out the documents she or he has prepared for you. Do they look professional? Scrutinize the contract. Would it seem to be fair and balanced? Ensure that the written agreement carries a bid price and payment schedule, the scope of work, a site plan, a sequential schedule of primary construction tasks, a change-order clause, a written procedural list for close-out, an express limited warranty, a clause about dispute resolution and a waiver of lien, which would prevent subcontractors and suppliers from putting a lien on a house should their invoices go unpaid by the contractor. If everything checks out, go ahead to remain the dotted line with confidence.