Tips for Hiring Home Improvement Contractors

So you’re looking to start a new home improvement project, but where do you start? By hiring the right contractor of course! Here are a few tips on how to start your search and find the contractor that’s right for your project.

Ask for Recommendations

The best place to start is by asking for recommendations from people you trust: friends, family, or coworkers. These recommendations will be particularly helpful if the home improvement projects they’ve had completed were both recent, and similar to the one you’re planning to undertake.

Take Advantage of Your Online Resources

Find out what others are saying about the contractor. Websites like Angie’s List or Houzz are two great sources. Third parties run these websites so the comments about the contractor are unfiltered; you’ll see real comments, both good and bad, from real people.

Once you’ve found a few viable candidates for your project, make sure you check out their websites and verify their credentials these may include local Building Industry Association membership (BIA) and the National Association of Home Builders membership (NAHB). It’s also smart to double check that the contactor is licensed and insured.

Give Them a Call

Talking over the phone is a great way to get a feel for the company before taking any big steps. Make sure to ask the right questions, here are some great examples:

Do they often take on projects of your size? (Relevant for large projects.)

How many projects of this type have they done in the past year?

How many other projects will they have going on at the same time?

Is the contractor willing to provide you with a list of previous clients?

Do they offer financing for customers?

Meet for an Estimate

Many contractors offer free in-home estimates, schedule a few of these; use them as an opportunity to not only get a quote, but to get to know the person that you’ll be working with. Remember, you may be with this person for hours at a time during your home improvement project, so make sure you get along and communicate well.

Above all, be sure to go with your instincts; everyone wants to save money, but if one contractor gives you an estimate far lower than their competitors, the quality of workman ship and materials may suffer. Find someone that feel you can trust to get the job done right.

If you are ready to upgrade & improve your home’s appearance, contact Aspen Home Improvements. We are conveniently located on Lititz Pike in Lancaster, Pa. We serve customers over a large area of central and eastern Pennsylvania, including Lancaster, Harrisburg, York, Reading, Chester, and Berks. 

We offer free estimates and specialize in replacement windows, roofing, replacement doors, and siding for your home improvement needs. Give us a call today at 717-569-3700.