Professional Advice For Hiring A General Contractor From A General Contractor
Evergreen Custom Carpentry is an established general contracting company in Lancaster County, Pa. As a family-owned business, here are a few things we advise everyone to consider when hiring a general contractor.
1. Always Work With A Licensed General Contractor
This is the most important thing to know before agreeing to work with any general contractor. Any prospective general contractor should provide you with a copy of their license. Each state is different, but in Pennsylvania, under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act, you can also check for their home improvement (general) contractors’ registration.
2. Hire Local Whenever Possible
You always want to work with a local general contractor to ensure they can be as physically present as possible to oversee your project. This ensures a quick response to changes and unanticipated occurrences. If you hire a general contracting company that is too far away, it defeats the purpose of having them manage your home project. Hiring locally also means they will be integrated with the local home renovation and repair community in your area.
3. Get Referrals From Previous Clients And Ask To See Their Work
Your general contractor should be open to showing you their previous work and connecting you with former clients. Do they specialize in the type of renovation you’re looking to accomplish? Does their work reflect what you’re looking to create in your own home?
4. Ask About Insurance
Your general contractor should have general liability insurance that will protect your home and property in the event of an accident. This will cover the cost in the event that any unforeseen accident occurs by providing you with a safety net.
5. Work With A General Contractor Who Is Transparent About a Payment Schedule and Change Orders
Money and how far it will go are often the biggest stress points for any renovation project. Clarity around discussing a payment schedule, change orders, and what is to be expected for your budget is fundamental to choosing a general contractor.
For general contracting inquiries, contact us for a free estimate on your next home renovation project.
Evergreen Custom Carpentry is a licensed general contracting company based in Columbia, Pa. Serving homeowners in Lancaster, York, and Chester Counties.
