Finding a good general contractor isn't a suggestion, its an absolute must for homeowners with a large project that they cannot handle on their own. Why would you skimp on something that the safety of you, your spouse, and your children depends on? Hopefully you wouldn't, so to find a good general contractor try some of the following tips.

You can look at a website that specializes in promoting contractors across the country, and find one in your area like www.contractors.com. Some contractors also advertise their services in local newspapers. The problem with hiring a contractor in this way, is that while there are good general contractors who advertise their services this way, there are some unscrupulous types that also advertise. You also need to be wary of any website that requires you answer a few general questions, and then insert a phone number and email address with promises that someone will get back to you "soon". These websites are often setup to get your personal information, which they then sell to other sites. Make sure that the site you use is reputable and has contractors available in your area.

A better option is to ask your friends, relatives, and neighbors for referrals. If you see a project taking place at a neighbor's house, ask them later how they felt about the service; prices, length of time it took to complete, general happiness with the finished product, etc. Make sure that the person you're asking has had the same type of project done as the one you are seeking a general contractor for.

Once you've obtained a list of references and referrals, start making calls. Check to ensure that each potential contractor is licensed with the state, and carries insurance. You should also ask how long they estimate the project to take, and ask if they ever send work to other contractors. Some contractors will accept the job, but hire general laborers to do the actual work. You will have no way of knowing who is doing the work on your house, and the quality of work they complete.

Don't be hesitant to ask for references from potential contractors, and to call each one and ask specific questions. This can help you narrow the list down even further. After you've narrowed your list, ask for formal bids/estimates for the jobs, and get each quote in writing.

A general contractor is one of the most important person to hire for a serious long term project, or a large home improvement project. This person will be in charge of working with designers, scheduling inspections, getting permits, hiring all workers, and managing every detail of the project. If you skimp on finding a good general contractor, you are only setting your project up for disaster.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Eblin.
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