You’re all ready to finally get the kitchen of your dreams. It’s time to get some estimates and choose a contractor. Do you know what questions you should have answered before you sign a contract? We can help. Read on for the seven questions you should ask your kitchen remodeling contractor BEFORE you sign a contract.
Are you licensed and insured?
To be licensed, a contractor must have appropriate training, demonstrate their skillset, and engage in continuing education to maintain licensure. A licensed contractor has proven that they are educated in their field.
If your contractor is not insured, and one of their crew gets hurt or inadvertently causes damage to your home, you will be financially responsible. Your homeowner’s insurance policy may not cover damage done during remodeling.
How much experience do you have?
Kitchen remodeling requires a specific skill set. To ensure a successful kitchen remodel in your home, it’s essential to find a contractor experienced in this type of remodeling. If you are hiring a general contractor, they may not have the expertise necessary to complete a large kitchen project.
What is included in my estimate?
Remodeling your kitchen can be a big investment in your home. Review the estimate with your contractor before work begins. Ask about services, materials, and labor that are included in the quote. Question if there are expenses that are not covered in the estimate and how any overages are handled.
Do you offer financing?
If you need to secure financing for your remodeling project, ask your contractor if they offer any options. They may offer low-interest financing for large jobs. Find out how much is required upfront — it is common for a contractor to request a portion of the payment before work starts to cover upfront costs and materials. Make sure you review the payment schedule with your contractor so there are no misunderstandings.
How long will my kitchen remodel take?
There’s no way around it. A kitchen remodel will disrupt your daily life, especially if you can’t use the kitchen at all during the process. Ask your contractor for an estimate of when the work will be done. Delays can happen, but it helps to have an idea of how long you’ll be roughing it without a kitchen.
Do you offer a warranty on your work?
Most contractors offer some type of warranty or guarantee on their workmanship. These warranties can vary greatly from business to business. Ask if their warranty covers only materials or labor or both. Find out how long the warranty lasts, how to file a claim, and exactly what’s covered.
How do you handle disagreements?
If problems arise and mistakes are made, how will your contractor handle it? We’d like to think the process will run smoothly, but there’s always the potential for an issue. Find out in advance how your contractor will handle a situation in which a mistake is made — it will save you headaches down the line.
Your Kitchen Remodel
Ask these questions of each contractor who provides an estimate. Don’t make your decision on cost alone. If you choose the lowest quote, you may end up paying a lot more for the remodel in the long run.
For a licensed, insured, experienced, and professional contractor for your kitchen remodel, contact Quality Homes of Rochester for a free quote.
