Things to Look for in Home Addition Contractors
When considering home addition contractors, you want to look for a team with experience designing and building additions. Having the same company design and build your addition minimizes the risk of last-minute changes and miscommunication. While cheaper amateur contractors may be more affordable, they may not have a wealth of experience with home additions, which may lead to mistakes and other complications. In addition, amateur contractors may not have the necessary expertise to repair errors that have been made.
Plan ahead
Home addition contractors Fox Chapel, PA projects can quickly run into thousands of dollars so planning can save you a lot of headaches. If you have a large project, you may want to consult with an architect, but you should still hire a separate contractor to execute the architectural drawings. In addition to being an architect, you may also want to work with an experienced builder who can assist with the design and build process.
The contractor you choose should provide free consultations to get a feel for the space you plan to expand. During these meetings, they should visit your property so that you can discuss your needs and desires. A good contractor will be honest and open about the process and answer all your questions.
Check the contractor’s reputation
When you’re considering hiring a home addition contractor, you should make sure you check out the reputation of the company. Check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints and reviews about the contractor. You can look for patterns in the reviews or complaints, and you should also check out the contractor’s license and optional certifications.
If a contractor has a bad reputation, you can use that information to make your decision. The Better Business Bureau can provide you with complaints about a contractor, as well as their customer testimonials.
Compare contractor estimates
Comparing contractor estimates is an essential part of the renovation process. Though each quote is different, they all include the same basic information: the scope of work and price. It can be tricky to determine the cost and compare estimates, though. First, it helps to understand the differences between the terms “bid,” “estimate,” and “proposal.”
It’s always best to get at least three estimates before deciding. This will give you a better idea of how different contractors vary in cost and quality of work. While it’s tempting to go with the lowest bidder, be careful not to fall for it. Low-ball bidders may use inferior materials and take longer to complete the project.
Once you’ve compared contractor estimates, meet with each one personally. This way, you can determine if you and the contractor work well together.
Work with local building officials
When considering home addition construction, it is essential to work with local building officials to ensure your project follows local regulations. Building officials are responsible for enforcing building codes within their jurisdiction and may approve or deny permit applications based on their findings. They also review and verify documents. In addition to these duties, they often have managerial office responsibilities and are responsible for establishing goals, timelines and policies.
Ensure that the contractors you are considering are licensed. The state’s Department of Labor and Industry regulates a large portion of the construction industry. This agency can tell you if a contractor has a valid license and whether they have ever been sanctioned. It can also provide you with information about problematic contractors.
