Every May, the construction industry celebrates National Home Remodeling Month, so what better time to consider your next remodeling project? Whether you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen, improve your bathroom, or add on to your home, C.O.D. Home Services is ready to help!
Now more than ever, it’s important to choose a professional, trusted remodeler. Here are 7 tips for making sure you pick the right remodeling partner.
1. History
While longevity is not guarantee of quality, remodeling firms don’t stay in business by doing lousy work or failing to deliver quality service. C.O.D. Home Services has been serving Eastern Carolina for more than 25 years. We’ve been through multiple recessions and worked for hundreds of area homeowners.
2. Stay local
Whenever the economy gets challenging or a natural disaster hits, you’re likely to find out-of-town contractors and fly-by-night “handyman” companies flooding the market. A local contractor is going to be aware of local building codes and also be more likely to worry about performing quality work.
3. Ask about insurance, licensing and certifications
C.O.D. Home Services is fully insured and licensed. North Carolina requires contractors to be licensed for any project involving electrical modifications, plumbing modifications, mechanical modifications, structural changes including window replacement and projects over $30,000, so be sure to ask for proof of both. A fully insured remodeler is going to protect you in case an accident occurs on the jobsite or there is some other problem with the project.
4. Check references
Most good remodelers generate the majority of their business from repeat and referral business. One of the best places to start when looking is to ask your friends and family about their experiences. Once you are considering a remodeler, ask for references from past customers. Any remodeler who can’t give you names and testimonials from previous clients is one you want to avoid. Check out online reviews as well.
5. Be cautious of low bids or “special” pricing
You know the old saying: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. If a remodeler is coming in with numbers well below others, there’s probably a good reason for that. Make sure you’re comparing apples-to-apples: Is the project scope the same? Are they using inferior materials?
6. No contracts
Be wary of any remodeler that doesn’t have you sign a contract. It protects you as well as the remodeler. It should clearly lay out the scope of the project, how it will be constructed, and clarify how problems will be resolved.
7. Avoid large payments up front
It is quite normal to have a remodeler ask for a deposit before the project starts, but most will not ask for complete payment for a project before they start working. Make sure the contract clearly lays out the payment schedule and what work is expected at each stage.
Ready to tackle your next home project? C.O.D. Home Services, LLC, is ready to guide you through your remodel! Contact us today to discuss your remodeling needs!