BEST PRACTICES FOR YOUR CONTRACTOR SEARCH

1. Thoroughly scrutinize your approved plans ensuring that every aspect you desire for your home, including minor elements like light fixtures, moulding, ducting, soffits, and any unique design touches will be reflected in your building contract.

2. Meet as many GCs as possible, this includes both the project manager (PM) and the contractor, and get multiple bids. Distinguish those firms that put in the effort to get to know you and your project.

3. Visit their current projects to witness their work firsthand.

4. Ask does the GC have his own crew or does he subcontract? Will you have a full crew the entire project and what days do they work.

5. Your time is valuable and the first impression when meeting your PM/GC is important, did they come prepared? Did they share relevant and consequential information beyond smiling/nodding and saying they can do everything? You should feel a level of confidence after meeting them.

6. Are they knowledgeable with getting through the permit process with minimal delay? With a variety of reports and documents that need to be submitted, your GC should be reviewing the documents prior to submitting.

7. Don’t feel obligated to place an overt emphasis on experience with your particular city. If your contractor is competent and has been around for a while, they’ll get the job done right.

8. Determine if there is a designated PM and understand their responsibilities, as well as their frequency of presence at the project site.

9. Clarify the communication plan, including the frequency of updates, such as weekly calls or emails.

10. Are they willing to put the time in to earn your trust prior to signing a contract? Answering your questions, sharing recommendations, giving you the space and knowledge needed to make an informed decision.

11. Try to consolidate your design and build efforts through the same firm. It’ll be one point of contact for all the efforts with less overhead for you to manage which can also lead to finger pointing.

12. Ask what triggers a change order and what is the associated process.

13. Verify the GC's insurance and bonding status to ensure they are adequately covered.

14. Familiarize yourself with the payment schedule and milestones that trigger payments.

15. Have your finishes picked and on-site to avoid any delays.