We have some questions to ask a general contractor to help you find the best fit for your project.
Building a commercial space or renovating a room is often a new experience for business owners. It can be pretty overwhelming if you haven’t been through the process before. You are tasked with many complex and critical decisions, and the first is hiring the right people.
Having an excellent contracting team on your side makes all the difference. Luckily, we have some questions to ask a general contractor to help you find the best fit for your project. Keep reading for six essential questions to ask your general contractor.
Do You Have Experience with This Type of Work?
Having a contractor who is experienced in the kind of project you want to be done is extremely important. It is particularly essential to look into the history of their business. And not every commercial construction company may be a fit for what you need. If the company specializes in building warehouses, it may not be the right fit for renovating an office space.
Do You Have the Proper Licenses?
This is a vital question you should ask every contractor you speak to. Licensing is an important aspect of many industries, and construction is no exception. Ask for a copy of their license and contact the issuing authority to ensure it is current and in good standing. Different states have varying requirements for licenses, and you need to ensure the contractor has certificates specific to their field of expertise.
What Kind of Insurance Do You Carry?
Just like licenses, contractors are required to have insurance. They must carry liability insurance, property damage, and worker’s compensation insurance. Ask to see the certificates to make sure they are insured for the job you’re hiring them for. Having proper insurance ensures you aren’t held liable in the unfortunate event of an accident.
Can You Provide a List of References?
Talking to former clients who have hired the general contractor you’re considering is an excellent way to determine if the company is the right fit. Ask them about the construction process, as well as the final product. Discuss things like budgeting, timeliness, and professionalism. Ask them if they would hire this general contractor again– you never know what you may find out.
Do You Have a Payment Schedule?
It is crucial to know how the contractor will bill you for this project. Never pay for the entire project upfront – that is never a good sign. Instead, start with a down payment and then break up the rest of the costs throughout the construction process. You should discuss what you expect from them to make that final payment and write it into the contract.
Do You Use Subcontractors?
General contractors need to hire subcontractors like plumbers and electricians. Construction goes much smoother when your general contractor and subcontractors work well together. Plus, you want to know exactly who will be working on your home or business. So, get the names of the companies your general contractor works with and look them up online for more information.
Contact Us
Whenever you’re ready to build or renovate a business, Mahogany Inc. has your back. Call us at 410-727-0334 with any questions and speak to one of our licensed professionals. To see examples of our work or to gain inspiration for your next project, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.