The Building Process: Choosing a Remodeler

Find a Remodeler Using Our On-line Database

Choosing a RemodelerFinding the right remodelor isn't as simple as picking up the Yellow Pages. If you're considering a major remodeling project, you may be working closely with your remodelor for several months. For that reason, you'll want to do everything possible to ensure you make the right decision. A few good places to begin your search include:

  • Seek referrals from friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and others who have had remodeling work done.

  • Contact the MBA at (262) 436-1122 for a list of remodelors or explore our Find A Builder database online. Using an MBA member remodelor helps ensure you are dealing with a reputable, quality contractor.

  • Talk to other industry professionals like independent trade contractors, building materials suppliers, architects, engineers, home inspectors and local lenders.
After you have identified a few strong candidates, be sure to do further background checking to make sure they are reputable contractors who provide quality workmanship. Call your local or state consumer protection agency and the Better Business Bureau to find out if there are unresolved complaints against any of the remodelors. You may also want to contact your state's contractor licensing agency and state and local building inspectors to verify that each remodelor has his or her appropriate licenses and a clean record.

Conduct Personal Interviews

An essential step to finding the right remodelor for you is to check references. Ask each candidate for the names and phone numbers of current and former customers. Take some time to speak with each reference and, if possible, tour a completed project or two to see the remodelor's work first-hand.

Some key questions may include:
  • Would you hire this company again?
  • Did the remodelor maintain a neat work site?
  • Did the crew show up on time? Were you pleased with their work style?
  • Was your project completed on time and within the budget?
  • Was the remodelor easy to talk to? Did he or she keep the customer informed on job progress?
Buyer Beware

We've all heard at least one horror story about an innocent homeowner paying large amounts of money to an unscrupulous contractor who then skips town, begins the job, but never completes it or does shoddy work. To help you protect yourself from these kinds of situations, the MBA has compiled the following warning signs:
  • The contractor solicits business door-to-door. This sales approach is often accompanied by high pressure sales tactics, intimidation and threats.
  • You can't verify the remodelor's name, address, telephone number or credentials
  • The contractor is not willing to offer references or the references provided were not happy with the contractor's work.
  • You are asked to pay for the entire job in advance
  • The contract only accepts payment in cash

Asking the Right Questions

When you hire a remodelor, you are buying a service rather than a product. The quality of service the remodelor provides will determine the quality of the finished project and your satisfaction with it. Consider whether potential remodelors meet the following qualifications.

  • Is the remodelor easily reachable at all times?
  • Does the remodelor carry workers' compensation insurance? (You should obtain copies of insurance certificates so that you are not liable for property damage or job site-related injuries.)
  • Does the remodelor have an established presence in the community?
  • How long has the company been in business? (Longevity suggests financial stability)
  • Does the remodelor have a trustworthy reputation among customers, peers and other remodeling professionals? (Obtain and check customer and supplier references)
  • Is the remodelor a member of the Metropolitan Builders Association? (Membership reflects a remodelor's commitment to industry professionalism)
  • Does the remodelor carry credentials such as Certified Graduate RemodelorTM (CGR), Certified Bath Designer (CBD) or Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD)?
Making a Decision

Once you've completed your research, you're ready to make an informed decision. Before you have the final contract drawn up though, be sure to request price estimates.

Conventional wisdom states that you should get at least three bids before hiring a contractor. Ask for a written estimate of the work to be done based on a set of plans and specifications. Because this is a time-consuming process, you may have to pay to have the estimate prepared.

However, don't let price alone drive your choice of remodelors. If you like a certain candidate and are confident in his work, don't dismiss him due to a high estimate. Perhaps you can scale down your project with a few minor modifications, like selecting less expensive fixtures or cabinet stock.

The bottom line is that you must feel comfortable with the remodeling contractor you choose. A strong rapport and close communication with your contractor will help make any job go well. Finally, be sure to read your contract carefully and review it with your remodelor to clarify any wording you don't understand.

Search for a remodelor that meets your unique home improvement needs in MBA's Find a Builder database.