Renovating a home is no small feat. It requires a good amount of preparation before the work can even begin. And if you don’t have the right central Oregon contractor for the job, you could end up with a botched project or less-than-pleasant experience. So, how do you choose the right contractor for the job?

This article will provide you with several steps on how to choose the best contractor for the job.

1. Obtain multiple project bids.

The first step to finding the right contractor is obtaining several bids for your project — at least three. You’ll want to ensure you meet the contractor and walk them through the home. This lets you explain the renovation you want in detail and ensures you receive an accurate cost estimate. It’s also good to provide contractors with an itemized list of any changes you wish to make. After you have received the bids, compare the estimates and offerings. If a bid is significantly higher than the others, ask why.

2. Consider the needs of your project.

In addition to cost, you should consider each contractor's specialties. Ask them about their prior experience during the bidding process. A reputable and experienced contractor should also be able to provide you with photos and references from past projects. You’ll also want to think about the scope of your project. Are you remodeling several rooms in your home or just one? Do you need someone with experience renovating a wood-frame house versus a concrete-block home? When determining whether a contractor is right for you, these are the questions you should ask yourself.

3. Take note of a contractor’s communication style.

When interviewing a contractor for your renovation, you’ll want to take note of their communication style. Do they mostly communicate by phone and text, or prefer email? Are they slow to respond or quickly reply to all your inquiries? If you need someone who communicates promptly and efficiently, you shouldn’t hire a contractor who ignores your calls or texts for long periods.

4. Consider the contractor’s availability.

How available is the contractor? If they are in high demand, you will likely have to book your project out significantly in advance or pay more for their services. An extremely busy contractor may even try to price themselves out of your project with an extremely high bid. However, remember that contractors in demand are likely very good at their job and may be worth the wait. But if you need someone who can start on your project as soon as possible, you’ll need to find a contractor with more open availability.

5. Ensure that the contractor is licensed and insured.

You must check to ensure that the contractor is licensed and insured before hiring them. This will help you avoid being ripped off, scammed, or sued in the long run. Because without proper insurance, you could be held liable if a subcontractor or worker becomes injured on the job. A contractor’s insurance covers property damage as well as any bodily injury or harm. To ensure that you hire a licensed contractor, ask for their credentials during the interview process. You can also check with your state and local government to confirm that the contractor meets all licensing requirements.

Get in touch with Christiansen's Contracting to get a quote for your project.

Whether you are looking for a general or industrial contractor in Oregon, Christiansen's Contracting is the team you can trust. We have a history of completing projects on schedule and budget. You can always count on us to deliver high-quality work. With over 30 years of experience in every type of project, we take care of everything from start to finish!

Contact us for a quote today by calling 541-526-0195 or through our contact form.