A guide to hiring the right contractor for your renovation project

Renovating a property, whether it’s a fixer-upper investment or a personal project to improve your home, is an exciting venture that can add exponential value, however it can also be stressful, overwhelming and even costly if you don't hire the right contractor. 

The contractor you choose will have a significant impact on the success of your renovation. A skilled, professional contractor will ensure your project is completed on time, within budget, and to your satisfaction, while a poor choice can lead to delays, cost overruns, and subpar workmanship.

However, there are steps you can take to make sure that you find the best contractor for your renovation project and thereby avoid many of the potential pitfalls and costly mistakes along the way:

1. Do Your Research

Before hiring a contractor, it's important to do your homework. Start by asking friends, family, and neighbours for recommendations, especially if they have recently completed renovation projects similar to yours. Online reviews and contractor rating websites can also provide useful insight into a contractor’s reputation and reliability. Look for professionals who specialise in the type of work you're planning, whether it's kitchen remodelling, roofing or full-scale home renovation.

2. Request Multiple Bids

Never settle for the first contractor you meet. It's always a good idea to request bids from at least three different contractors as this not only gives you an idea of the project's cost but also allows you to compare services, timelines, and the level of detail in each proposal. Be cautious of bids that are significantly lower than others, as this can sometimes signal poor quality or hidden fees.

Make sure the bids are itemised and include costs for materials, labour, and any subcontractor fees. This will help you compare proposals more accurately.

3. Ask for References and View Previous Work

A reputable contractor should have a portfolio of previous work and be willing to provide references from past clients. Viewing previous projects, either in photos or in person, gives you an idea of the contractor’s skill level and style and speaking with past clients can also give you insight into the contractor’s communication, punctuality, and ability to stay on budget.

When speaking with references, ask about any challenges encountered during the project and how the contractor handled them. This can help you understand how they respond to unexpected issues.

4. Get Everything in Writing

A detailed contract is essential to protect both you and the contractor so even though you might get on really well and seem to be on the same page, everything must still be in writing before the project commences. The contract should outline the scope of the work, the timeline, payment schedules, materials to be used, and any warranties or guarantees. Make sure that the contract is as detailed as possible, leaving little room for misunderstandings or changes without your consent.

Avoid contractors who refuse to provide a written contract or who ask for a large portion of the payment upfront.

5. Important Questions to Ask Contractors

To ensure you hire the right contractor for your renovation, asking the right questions is key. Here are 10 crucial questions to ask before making your final decision:

1. Are you licensed and insured? Always start by confirming that the contractor is licensed to work in your area and carries the necessary insurance. This will protect you from potential legal and financial issues.
2. How long have you been in business? Experience matters. A contractor with several years of experience is more likely to have the skills and knowledge needed to handle unexpected challenges.
3. Can you provide references from previous clients? Speaking to past clients gives you insight into the contractor's work ethic, communication skills, and ability to meet deadlines.
4. What is the estimated timeline for the project? It's important to know how long the renovation will take, especially if it involves major disruptions to your home life. Make sure the timeline is realistic and fits your schedule.
5. Who will be working on the project? Some contractors hire subcontractors for certain tasks, so it's important to know who will be handling your renovation. Ensure that all workers on the job are qualified and experienced.
6. Who is responsible for pulling permits and getting permissions? Clarify whose responsibility this will be so there are no misunderstandings. Some projects may require a building permit and possibly written permission from the homeowner’s association (HOA). If these items are required, you should have them in hand before commencing with the project.
7. What is the payment schedule? Discuss payment terms before signing a contract. Payments are typically made in stages as the work progresses. Be wary of contractors who ask for a large percentage of the payment upfront.
8. What happens if the project takes longer than expected? Delays can happen, so it's important to have a plan in place for managing them. Ask how the contractor handles timeline overruns and whether there are any financial penalties for extended delays.
9. How do you handle changes or unforeseen issues? Renovation projects sometimes encounter unexpected problems that require changes to the original plan. Make sure you know how the contractor handles change orders and how they will communicate with you about additional costs.
10. Do you offer a warranty on your work? A reputable contractor should stand behind their work and offer a warranty. This guarantees that they will fix any issues that arise after the project is completed.

Hiring the right contractor is crucial to ensuring your home renovation project goes smoothly so it pays to take your time and do your homework properly before you make your final decision. Take the time to find a contractor who is experienced, reliable, and aligns with your vision for your home.