HOW-TO: Interview a Contractor
HOW-TO: Interview a Contractor
Whether you are planning an addition for a growing family or simply getting new screens for your windows, finding a competent and reliable contractor is the first step to a 
successful and satisfying home improvement project. Your home may be your most valuable financial asset. That is why it is important to be cautious when you hire someone to maintain or improve it.
Review a short list of reputable, established, properly licensed, and insured contractors. For example, http://Contractorsyoucantrust.com (see below), most of the homework has been done for you!
Then, thoroughly interview each contractor you are seriously considering.
Here are some questions to know the answers to before you hire a contractor:
• License and Registration with the state? In the state of Michigan several specific contractor specialties require a license. Be specific in knowing what you need accomplished. With very few exceptions, any job over $600 requires a license. Michigan does have licensing laws; be sure your contractor has a license and it is current. You can check out a contractor’s license status online. Contact Contractorsyoucantrust.com for more information and a direct link to the state license search page. All Members of Contractorsyoucantrust.com are continuously monitored to be properly licensed and current if they perform a specialty requiring a license in the state of Michigan.
• How long have they been in business? Look for a well established company.
• Any doubts about their credibility? Check out their customer references.
• How many projects like mine have they completed in the last year? Ask for a detailed list. This will help you determine how familiar the contractor is with your type of project.
• Will my project require a permit? Michigan and many local governments 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. Be suspicious if the contractor asks you to get the permit(s). It could mean that the contractor is not licensed or registered, as required by your state or locality.
• May I have a list of references? The contractor should be able to give you the names, addresses, phone numbers, and now email addresses of at least three clients who have projects similar to yours. Ask each reference how long ago the project was completed and if you can see it. Also, tell the contractor that you would like to visit jobs in progress.
• Will they 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.
A “mechanic’s lien” could be placed on your home if your contractor fails to pay the subcontractors and suppliers on your project. That means the subcontractors and suppliers could go to court to force you to sell your home to satisfy their unpaid bills from your project. Protect yourself by asking the contractor, and every subcontractor and supplier, for a lien release or lien waiver.
• What types of insurance do you carry? Contractors should have personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage. Ask for copies of current insurance certificates; make sure they are current throughout your project. Avoid doing business with contractors who do not carry the appropriate insurance. Otherwise, you will be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project.
• If you have anything that was built before 1978, there are new Federal EPA regulations related to Lead Abatement. Verify your contractor is certified to handle a project as required.