[Part 2 in a series, “To Get the Right Remodeler, Ask the Right Questions – Here’s What to Say”]

In progress…

Back in Part 1, we explained how to narrow your search for the right remodeler.

Here in Part 2, you start making calls.

BONUS:  Below is a handy list of questions PLUS a handy script to use, from your friends at Handyworks Remodeling and Design:

 

PRINT THIS PAGE…It’s your script:  Take notes as you talk with remodelers. Use one page for each remodeler.

Company name _____________________________   Town or City ________________________________
Name of person you’re talking to _____________
TIME IN BUSINESS – Ask these questions: 
1: “How old is your company?”  [____years]
2: “Is your license in the company name or a person’s name?
[circle one: person’s name/company name]

 

TYPES OF EMPLOYEES – Ask these questions:

1: “How many people are on your staff?[____ people]
2: “Are they payroll employees or per-project (1099) employees?
[circle one:  payroll/per-project]
Important note:  Payroll employees are usually full-time.  Per-project (1099) employees are paid by the hour, or by the project.
3, If payroll, ask: “You carry workman’s comp, right?” (it’s the law) [circle one: yes/no]
– If they say yes:  continue to the next question.
– If they say no:  thank them and move on to the next person.
Why this is important:  Having no workman’s comp means the company is likely small and not properly insured, making you, the homeowner, liable for incidents or injuries.  Plus, if the company has per-project employees only, they are not necessarily loyal to the contractor, or to the project they’re working on

 

INSURANCE – Ask these questions: 

  1. Can you email me a copy of your ACORD insurance certificate?”  (it’s only one page)
    – If they say yes, check Section B “worker’s compensation” for coverage amounts.
    – If they say no, or will not send, or if their worker’s comp shows zero coverage, move on to another company.
    Learn more about insurance in our other blogs:
    “Insurance Assurance: What You NEED, Before You PROCEED!” To read it, click here.
    “Fully Insured Does NOT Always Mean…Fully Insured!” To read it, click here.

This research info will help anyone trying to select the best qualified remodeler for a project.

— Keith

To read Part 1 of this article, “Finding the Right Remodeler:  Easy as ABC!”, click here.

OR…ASK KEITH YOUR QUESTION, NOW:

Here at Handyworks Remodeling and Design (HRD) in Wallingford, CT, we’re more than happy to answer any of your questions.  Ask away…and Keith Santora, our president, will answer ASAP!   Call Keith at 203-626-5451, or click this link to ask Keith any question, no obligation.  Just click here.