Hiring a professional and experienced remodeler is an important first step in making changes to your home – but how do you find one? Here are a few tips from the Federal Trade Commission (www.ftc.gov) on what you should look for in a remodeler.

Home improvement contractors often advertise in newspapers, the Yellow Pages, and on the radio and TV. However, don’t consider an ad an indication of the quality of a contractor’s work. Your best bet is a reality check from those in the know: friends, neighbors, or co-workers who have had improvement work done. Get written estimates from several firms. Ask for explanations for price variations. Don’t automatically choose the lowest bidder.

Don’t Get Nailed

Not all contractors operate within the law. Here are some tip-offs to potential rip-offs. A less than reputable contractor:

• solicits door-to-door;
• just happens to have materials left over from a previous job;
• only accepts cash payments;
• asks you to get the required building permits;
• pressures you for an immediate decision;
• offers exceptionally long guarantees;
• asks you to pay for the entire job up-front.

Hiring a Contractor

Interview each contractor you’re considering. Here are some questions to ask.

1. How long have you been in business? Look for a well-established company and check it out with consumer protection officials.
2. Are you licensed and registered with the state? While most states license electrical and plumbing contractors, only 36 states have some type of licensing and registration statutes affecting contractors, remodelers, and/or specialty contractors. The licensing can range from simple registration to a detailed qualification process.
3. How many projects like mine have you completed in the last year? Ask for a list. This will help you determine how familiar the contractor is with your type of project.
4. Will my project require a permit? Most states and localities require permits for building projects, even for simple jobs like decks. A competent contractor will get all the necessary permits before starting work on your project.
5. May I have a list of references? The contractor should be able to give you the names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least three clients who have projects similar to yours.
6. Will you be using subcontractors on this project? If yes, ask to meet them, and make sure they have current insurance coverage and licenses, if required. Also ask them if they were paid on time by this contractor.
7. What types of insurance do you carry? Contractors should have personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage. Ask for copies of insurance certificates, and make sure they’re current.

While most people know Brock Built as a new homebuilder, the company is also a professional remodeler that is licensed/insured, well known, guarantees its work and can get the job done in a reasonable amount of time. For pricing information contact Adam: 404.557.2523 or Craig: 404.472.4407

Here are a few of the types of remodeling projects Brock Built can do for you:

Make your home more “Green”
Finish Basements
Custom Wine Cellar
Custom Bar
Home Theatre
Sauna
New Kitchen Cabinets and Counter Tops
Bathroom Improvements
Build/ Enclose Decks
Porches
Garages
Re-Roofing
Fencing
Interior and Exterior Painting
Patio Upgrades with Fire Pits or Fire Places
Wooden Arbors
Exterior Pavers and Colored Concrete