Thinking of hiring a contractor? A remodeling pro gives 11 tips on finding the right contractor and ensuring there are no surprises with your next project.

Everyone has heard the expression, “You get what you pay for.” This saying is never more relevant than when you’re planning a home improvement or remodeling project that involves hiring a contractor. Going by price alone increases the risk of project failure and can lead to higher costs down the road.

With the proper planning and a knowledgeable contractor, you can be assured of a job well done at a reasonable cost. Remember that home improvement or remodeling can be a fun experience for both you and your family. You should always choose the contractor you feel most comfortable working with.

Here are 11 tips to get the most out of your contractor and next home improvement project:

The right person for the job will be easy to talk to. Make sure you see eye to eye by hiring a contractor that understands your goals and has experience in the type of job you are looking for. Communication is key for all projects, so insist on regular contact by email, phone or text messages. Allow the work crew to manage their day-to-day work, but set up a weekly face-to-face update from the foreman.

Ask your contractor for his or her recommendations on how the project should take place. In the long run, is it worth cutting corners for a temporary fix? The lowest bid is not always the best. Request a written description of the materials necessary for the job. A low bid may indicate that a contractor uses sub-par materials or is desperate for work. The more accurate bid is likely somewhere in the middle.

Before you hire a contractor, be sure you understand their qualifications, including any certifications they have from national trade organizations. (Angie’s List/Eldon Lindsay)

Abbreviations behind your contractor’s name can represent certifications from national trade organizations. These indicate that the company belongs to certain organizations that bind them to a strict code of ethics. Such memberships, titles and abbreviations include certified graduate remodeler (CGR), certified aging in place specialist (CAPS), local Building Industry Association membership (BIA) and National Association of Home Builders membership (NAHB).  Also, insist on hiring a licensed, bonded and insured contractor. This is a must. Otherwise, as the property owner you are liable if a member of the work crew gets injured on the job.

Your contract should include: detailed time frames, the total cost, payment arrangements, your contractor’s license number, project description, names of parties involved and how to handle additional costs if necessary. Be cautious; if you are not given a timeline for the job to be completed, this may indicate the contractor has several current jobs and may not complete your job in a timely manner. Keep track of all-important information as well by keeping job-related documents such as contracts, payments and receipts in one place.  Record key contact information for everyone working on your project.

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Who Pays If Contractors Don’t Pull Permits?

Dear Angie: Can we get a building permit after a room addition was built by a contractor? We had a room added to our mobile home but the construction firm did not get a building permit. Can we get the firm to get a permit retroactively? What should we do? – K.J. S., Trenton, South Carolina

If necessary, break the project down into multiple phases. Although this may increase the total cost due to repetitious start-up expenses and inflation, it may also be a better option for you to spread out the cost over time. Homeowners can often save money by doing somel tasks on their own, such as cleaning and painting.

Know what permits are required and what regulations need to be followed for your remodeling project. Your contractor or architect should be responsible for applying for and acquiring all necessary permits. Don’t be passive, however; ask for information. Know what’s going on behind the scenes. The cost of the job will increase if the contractor is surprised by outdated wiring or other concealed budget busters.

Before a job begins, make sure your home is prepared. That includes having an area where workers can store their tools, and sealing the site’s entry point. (Angie’s List/Eldon Lindsay)

•  Select your colors and finishes before the painter arrives to save time.

•  Review sample materials to make sure you are happy with them. 

•  Don’t forget to make space for the crew. Allow them to keep their supplies and equipment on site. The more organized and accessible these items are, the faster they will be able to do their work.

Try to avoid any potential loss. Remove any valuables or easily damaged items from the work site. 

•  Prevent dust accumulation by sealing the entry point with plastic sheeting and blue painter’s tape.

•  Finally, have a “go-to-guy.” Pick someone to be the key contact between the contractor and the family. This will help keep communication clean and clear to avoid confusion.

Begin demolition only after the new equipment and supplies have arrived, including windows, doors, appliances or any other essential items.

Inform the work crew where your property lines are located to prevent materials from being placed in the wrong area.

Although the project will be disruptive, don’t forget that the end result will be worth it.

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How much should you expect to pay, if anything, for an estimate, inspection or other contractor consultation?

Schedule a final walkthrough. Meet with your contractor and make note of any tasks that need to be completed. Be sure to request an affidavit of final release or lien wavier. Once the job is complete and the final payment is made, this clears you of any liability for third-party claims.

Editor’s note: This is an updated version of a story originally published on August 31, 2012.

About this Experts Contributor: Matt Blank is the Marketing Department (yes, the whole thing!) for MBC Building & Remodeling in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. MBC Building & Remodeling has been serving Lancaster County, Pennsylvania since 1999. Matt also plays drums with the band The Slackwater News.

As of Jan, 15, 2016, this service provider was highly rated on Angie’s List. Ratings are subject to change based on consumer feedback, so check AngiesList.com for the most up-to-date reviews. The views expressed by this author do not necessarily reflect those of Angie’s List.

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