Hiring a room addition contractor is a significant decision, especially in St. Charles, IL, where the quality of workmanship is crucial. Therefore, before hiring a contractor, there are certain things you need to know to ensure that you are making the right choice. Here are some of the essential things you should consider before hiring a room addition contractor in St. Charles, IL.
Legal Protection
Check for License and Insurance: Before hiring a home addition contractor, you should ensure that they have a valid license to operate in St. Charles, IL. A valid license ensures that the contractor has met the minimum requirements for performing construction work in the county, and it is also a legal requirement. Additionally, ensure that the contractor has liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance to protect you from any liability in case of accidents or damages during the construction process.
Social Proof
Read Reviews: It’s easier than ever to learn about a company before you do business with them. All you have to do is read Google reviews, Angi (formerly Angie’s List), Facebook, and other social platforms. Asking for references is a little silly, they’re only going to give you someone who is happy so take advantage of all that information at your fingertips and search the name of the company followed by the word “reviews” to see the different platforms where they have been reviewed and you can read the good, the bad and the ugly. Remember, the reviews can’t be manipulated by the owner so what you see, whether it’s an average of 2-stars or 5-stars, is likely to be the type of experience you will have. If you notice a lot of 1 and 2 stars or read comments about projects not getting completed, move on to the next home addition contractor on your list! However, if the company has lots of 5 stars and only one or two low ratings, read the reviews. Sometimes people accidentally hit the one star and haven’t ever done business with the company. Read the review and read the owner’s response. How the company handles bad reviews will also tell you a lot about how they handle conflict with projects.
Previous Projects
Look for Experience: Experience is a crucial factor when hiring a home addition contractor. The more experience a contractor has, the better equipped they are to handle any challenges that may arise during the construction process. Keep in mind, adding an entire room to your home is a large undertaking and you want to be confident you hire the right company. Check the contractor’s portfolio and look for projects similar to what you have in mind. This will give you an idea of their experience and whether they are the right fit for your project.
Getting Started
Get Detailed Estimates: Ensure that you get a detailed estimate from the contractor that outlines all the costs involved in the project. This includes materials, labor, permits, and any other expenses. This will help you to budget for the project and also avoid any surprises during the construction process.
Communication and Professionalism: Communication is essential when working with a contractor. When hiring a home addition contractor, you want one who is responsive, communicates effectively, and is professional. The contractor should be willing to listen to your ideas and concerns and offer professional advice. Hire someone you like talking to because you will be having a lot of conversations!
Contract: Once you have decided to hire a contractor, ensure that you sign a contract that outlines the scope of the work, timeline, payment schedule, and any other relevant details. Be wary of contracts that are too vague or do not include specifics. A contract protects both parties and ensures that everyone is on the same page. It will also serve as a reference point for any misunderstandings during the course of construction.
If you’re ready for hiring a home addition contractor, give us a call at 630-356-4441 or email ellie.whelanbuilders@gmail.com.