What Questions Should I Ask When Hiring A Basement Remodeling Contractor?

Basement remodeling is a great way to increase the living space in your home without the significant expense that can come from building an addition. Although some people try to carry out this work on their own, many turn to basement remodeling contractors because they have the experience needed to get the job done on time and within budget and address any complications that arise during the project.

Top Questions To Ask A Basement Remodeling Contractor

Once you have decided to entrust the work of your renovation to a basement remodeling contractor, it is important to find a reputable and professional company in your area. Getting referrals from people you know and reading reviews online are excellent first steps, but once you have narrowed down the list of contenders, it is a good idea to take a few minutes to interview them to get a feel for how they operate.

Here are some of the top questions homeowners should ask when interviewing a potential basement remodeling contractor.

How Much Experience Do You Have?

One big reason homeowners enlist the services of a basement remodeling contractor instead of tackling the job themselves is because they lack experience. Ensure that the company you are hiring has plenty of years of experience in remodeling basements and knows how to successfully deal with the many situations that may unexpectedly pop up during the job. In addition to asking how many years they have been in business, find out how many basements they have finished or remodeled.

Are You & Your Team Insured?

One of your first questions should be whether the contractor is licensed and insured. Ask to see the license and proof of insurance, and ensure that both documents bear the name of the business you are hiring and are currently valid in the state where the work will take place. If the contractor is not licensed, you will not be able to seek restitution from the state licensing board if something goes wrong. Insurance gives you peace of mind that you will not be held liable for any damages or accidents that take place in your basement.

It is also a good idea to ask what type of warranty will be offered for the completed project and what it does and does not cover, such as basement flooding. Be sure to get these details in writing. It can be very reassuring to know that the contractor will still be available if something goes wrong after the work has been completed.

Do You Have Any References I Can Contact?

Ask the contractor for a list of references and call them. If they do not have a list prepared, ask them to get back to you with the names and phone numbers of some of their past clients.

Many people focus on the end result of the remodel in their questioning, but it can be even more insightful to ask each reference about all aspects of the construction experience. Ask how the contractor handled any problems and how well they communicated with the client and responded to their concerns. Find out if the work was done on time and on budget, and be sure to ask whether they would be willing to work with the contractor again.

You might also ask the contractor if you can see photos of some of their past work or visit a current job site to get a better idea of the quality of their work.

Do You Have A Timeline For The Project?

The timeline for basement renovation projects can vary significantly depending on the amount of work that needs to be done and the number of employees working for a contractor.

The answer to this question will let you know how much demand there is for the contractor. A busy contractor may not be able to start the project immediately. If they are able to start right away, you may want to take a closer look at why they are not busier and ensure they provide quality work. One to three months is a typical time frame for starting larger-scale projects.

Ask about the timeline and any possible delays that could disrupt your project. It can be difficult for companies to provide an exact date of completion, but an experienced contractor will be able to supply a rough timeline for the project.

Can You Complete My Project Within My Budget?

The contractor who gives you the lowest bid will not necessarily be your best choice. Some contractors present attractive bids that do not include necessities such as flooring, finishes and permits, so be sure to find out what is included in the estimate.

Let the contractor know your plans, and ask them if they can realistically get the job done within your budget. Choose a basement remodeling contractor who respects your budget and is honest about costs.

It is also a good idea to ask how payment will be handled. Be wary if a contractor asks for a significant down payment up front. Ask them to put the terms of payment in writing.

How Communicative Are You Throughout The Process?

Good communication between a contractor and homeowner is essential. Conducting an interview can give you a good idea of how well potential contractors communicate, but you should also ask about this aspect directly. Let them know how frequently you expect them to communicate with you as well as your preferred method of getting in touch, whether it is in person, via email or on the phone. Be sure to ask how they will contact you in the case of an emergency.

Reach Out To A Professional Basement Remodeling Company

Whether you are looking to add some life to an unfinished basement or give your current basement a modern update, good basement remodeling contractors know how to get the job done quickly, safely, affordably and on time. Reach out to the professional basement remodeling company at Dirt Connections to find out how their experienced contractors can help you create the basement of your dreams.