Hiring a contractor to add a room, remodel your bathroom or kitchen or add a beautiful patio can be an overwhelming task. Who should I hire? What kind of contractor is right for this project? How long will it take? Follow the tips below and you'll be sure to hire the right contractor for your perfect room addition or bathroom remodel!

Hire A Designer/Architect For Larger Remodeling Projects
For many large projects, such as a room addition or remodeling your bathroom, think about hiring a designer or architect before you bring a contractor into the mix. Most designers can help detail exactly what you want for your specific project and can construct a set of architectural plans and specifications for your project.  Also, most designers can also provide insight and additional assistance throughout the contractors job.

Always Ask For The Contractors References
Asking your contractor for references from past project jobs is an important step in the process. The best way to find out about your contractor and their experience is to talk to people they have done work for in the past. Taking the time to call the references as opposed to just reading them is important as well. If you have the time, take the time to go to one of the contractors references and see their work first hand.

What To Ask References

• How was the quality of their work?
• Would you use the contractor again for another project?
• Were you happy with the end results?
• How were the workers that were hired?
• Did the contractor take too long in finishing the project?
• Was the contractor himself on the job to supervise throughout the process?
• Any other questions you may have are important to ask!

Communication, Communication, Communication!
When you interview a contractor for a project, communication is critical. You should feel extremely comfortable talking with the contractor because throughout the process of your project, you will need to constantly communicate and talk in order to get things done. The better you communicate with your contractor, the better your project will turn out! When you have a contractor that you cannot talk to, you might be afraid to mention what you really what which hinders the work and the end result. But remember, just because you communicate with them great doesn't mean you should hire solely based on communication. All the right aspects must be in place.

Hiring On The Lowest Price Is Not The Best Decision
Often times, homeowners will hire strictly based on the price alone. The price is very important, but not the only aspect of why you should hire a specific contractor. You should examine and breakdown the estimate to see how its proposed and then compare it to other estimates. If the price is considerably lower than another estimate, it may be due to the standard of their workmanship. Often times, you may get a lower price from contractors when they don't have as much experience. Before making a decision, look at all the factors, including professionalism, price, references and how well you communicate with the contractor.

See If The Contractor Is Part Of Associations
Membership in an association is great evidence that a contractor has taken the steps to stay current with industry standards and business practices.

Quality Standards
Hire a contractor who makes sure to mention that quality is important.

Always Verify Insurance
Always make sure that the contractor is insured to protect you from legal problems that could arise. All contractors should have Workman's Compensation (in case a worker is hurt), General Liability Insurance (in case a contractor damages your property), and Automobile Insurance (protects you in case a contractor's vehicle damages another vehicle on your property).

How Long In Business?
We strongly recommend hiring a contractor with five or more years in the business. Research has shown that contractor's with five or more years of experience are more likely to have better standards & better results.

Check Up On The Contractors Education
Always hire a contractor who places a good deal of emphasis on continuing their education. Contractors who keep up with industry seminars, trade shows and take classes are privy to the latest techniques in the business.

Make Sure Their License Is Valid
Many times, contractors will claim they have a contractors license when the truth is that their license doesn't exist or has expired because of bad practices. Always make sure to check up to see if their license is current!