You ever heard of him? This character might have promised top-tier quality that appears sub-par after installation. Maybe the estimated quotes increased significantly… then doubled… then tripled? Is this “quick” remodel past the estimated time? Before you shared details about your upcoming home remodel, you got at least one earful about the capital B - “Bad Contractor.” You’ve undoubtedly heard warnings from friends and family that ranged from cautionary tales to horror stories.
Our industry, like any industry, has bad apples. The “Bad Contractor” can range from an inexperienced, ill-informed person to a straight-up con artist. And hunting for a capital G - “Good Contractor” can feel like an unsure game. There are tell-tale signs of a contractor who is worth their salt. So, how do you identify a Good Contractor from a Bad Contractor? Keep reading to find out!
1 - No 100% Upfront Fees
A deposit for a remodeling contract is typical. A Good Contractor will ask for a deposit that may range from 10% to 30% of the total project cost. The deposit amount comes down to the remodeling company practice and the size of the project. This should be represented clearly in a contract that fully explains the deposit amount as well as a defined payment schedule. A Bad Contractor may ask for 100% of the project price upfront and will take your money with zero intention of doing the work. They will string people along by taking a while to return calls or ghost them entirely. They hope that their client will simply give up and take the loss. Believe it or not, this is not the worst outcome of working with Bad Contractor.
2 - Quality Products Are Bought And Used
A Good Contractor, as well as a good Project Manager, always communicate with their client throughout the project. Asking about material choices is commonplace and a Good Contractor will take the time to show and explain the materials being used. If you want eco-friendly sheetrock, make sure you get eco-friendly sheetrock. The Bad Contractor draws up an agreement for a certain type of material but uses a much cheaper material instead. This saves them on materials costs but leaves you, the client, in a markedly worse position. Insist on seeing the materials the contractor is using and always ask questions. It’s your home and money we are talking about here.
3 - The Estimate Takes Time
Think about everything that goes into offering a realistic estimate. A contractor needs to understand your desired outcome, materials, timeline, required building codes and much more. A Good Contractor will have a pre-construction process in order to properly deliver accurate figures so you may understand the budget required to do the work. This is the first step to any project, which takes time for a Good Contractor to properly evaluate the desired project. And because this important phase is a service, expect a reasonable fee for this service. A Bad Contractor will throw out a price tag or “ballpark quote” after a glance at the job. Typically, the amount is underquoted, appearing like a deal to an unsuspecting client. Once they get a contract signed, the project begins. Then, the Bad Contractor discovers a series of problems never mentioned before the contract, thus raising the price to get the work done.
Keep in mind that sometimes during remodeling unknown issues may arise during construction, like a wall being opened up exposing mold or a load-bearing post. No one is Superman and has x-ray vision to see behind existing walls or floors. But if problems arise that should have been addressed by applying basic knowledge before going into contract, then “Houston, we have a problem”. A Bad Contractor may use problems and present them exaggerated or altogether faked. And since you are likely not an expert, how could you be certain of the difference?
For complex projects, a controlled demolition inspection may be needed before getting the final numbers to you. A Good Contractor will tear-out a small area to get an idea of what is behind the walls if a known water leak had occurred or if the wall may be a possible load-bearing situation. This offers insight into problems that may be present so both parties understand what is involved. It is in the best interest not just for the client but also the contractor to find out the issues before the project starts. A Good Contractor will do things like this to offer a quality budget to review before construction.
Overall, think twice about an estimate. The word estimate is that exactly… an estimate. If you are okay with the “ballpark quote”, then go ahead with the Bad Contractor and expect to pay more in the end. But if you want to know the price of your project, you need a Good Contractor to do their due diligence to provide you clearly defined specifications with accurate numbers.
4 - The Timeline Is Reasonable
Every construction project will have a timeline with a bit of leeway for unforeseen circumstances. Contractors, the Good and the Bad, typically juggle numerous projects at the same time. And it is worth noting that timelines can be legitimately pushed due to a delay in materials, appliances and more; and such potential delays should be defined in the contract. Expected delays are built into the project timeline and shared with the client upfront. A reasonable timeline becomes unreasonable when a Bad Contractor pulls resources from your project to hunt for a bigger paycheck. A Bad Contractor might also ditch your project for one offering a quick return. A Good Contractor won’t knock you down on their priority list because they think they can get away with it. A Bad Contractor will give you reason after reason as to why they need to push a timeline, but none of this is your problem. It is their job to do everything in their power to finish the job on time as defined in the contract.
5 - Track Record Of Quality Work
A Good Contractor can prove their work is legitimate. They should have local clients who can speak to the quality of their work and be willing to provide you a list of references. Additionally, they should have a website, be easily found on the BBB, maintain insurance policies and have active licenses in the municipalities they conduct business. A Good Contractor will have a track record of projects that are building code compliant and quality-oriented. A Bad Contractor will do everything to cut corners including doing work that is not up to industry standards. What they’ll typically do is rush through the final stages of construction so things go unnoticed and things won’t break until after they get their paycheck. Beware of the corner cutters!
Poor construction quality is more than a financial hit to you - it can put you in danger. A Good Contractor will dedicate time to pre-construction efforts so the cost, timeline, materials and all other questions are answered. Everything should be in writing and you should stay up to date with their team as they work through your project. Afterall, you are entitled to get what you paid for every time.
Issues can arise with any remodeling project, and that in and of itself isn’t worth suspicion. But the difference between a Good Contractor and a Bad Contractor is to trust your gut. Take the time to do your research and be mindful of the tips above to ensure you work with a Good Contractor.
At Maverick Home Remodeling, Inc., we pride ourselves on our reputation, process and transparency to be the model Good Contractor. Learn more about our services here.
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