A Checklist for Finding the Right Contractor

Tri County Windows & Siding understands that doing work on your house requires a great deal of thought and consideration. So before you get to work this winter planning your spring project, follow our handy checklist to ensure you’re doing your due diligence on who you hire.

– Interview Your Contractor
Get to know your contractor before committing. By interviewing this person, you’ll get a better idea of the price, be able to ask questions and better understand your options, and get a feel for how they work with you.

– Gather Critical Business Information
To ensure you’re not doing business with a fly-by-night contractor, demand information such as full business name, street address, copies of comprehensive liability insurance certification, business license and other credentials. The state of Virginia requires contractors to pass a written examination in their specialty to prevent imposters from doing business. But if you don’t ask, you may never know!

– Check Referrals and Online Sources
One beautiful aspect of being a homeowner in this day and age is the ease of accessing information online about contractors. Reviews from companies like Angie’s List, HomeAdvisor, and the Better Business Bureau as well as on platforms such as Facebook and Google allow you to preliminarily research companies before you invite them into your home. Make sure you’re engaging with reputable companies by checking these sites.

– Warranties and Products
Picking the right contractor also means picking the right products. Ask about the materials your contractor uses. Are they brand names familiar to you? Do these products come with a manufacturer’s warranty? Force your contractor to be upfront with you on these issues. Any resistance might be a tell-tale sign that it’s time to find a different option.

– Scheduling and Payment Terms
Get a sense of how long the contractor estimates the job to take. If you need something done urgently, don’t let someone take your money without signing a contract to begin work in a timely fashion. Sure, the weather and other unpredictable events may occur, but feel comfortable putting in writing a “no-later-than” clause to ensure your contractor is being held accountable. Also, sign a service agreement outlining the terms.

Tri County Windows & Siding is a 2016 Angie’s List Super Service Award Winner who services Loudon County. Contact us today for a no obligation estimate.