How to choose a good builder
Choosing a home repair company can feel like a high-stakes gamble. Whether you're fixing a leaky roof or planning a full-scale renovation, the contractor you hire will be in your private space, handling your most valuable asset.
To help you navigate this process, here is a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best local home building repair company.
1. Start with Local Referrals
While a Google search is a great starting point, the most reliable information often comes from your own community.
Ask Neighbors: If you see a repair van in a neighbor’s driveway, ask about their experience. Local companies rely heavily on their reputation within a specific radius.
Visit Local Supply Stores: Stop by a local lumberyard or hardware store. The employees there often know which contractors pay their bills on time and which ones consistently buy high-quality materials.
2. Verify Credentials and Insurance
Never take a contractor's word at face value. A "handyman" and a "licensed contractor" are not the same thing, and the difference matters for your liability.
Verify Licenses: Check with your state or local licensing board to ensure their license is active and covers the specific type of work you need.
Confirm Insurance: Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI). It should include both general liability and workers' compensation. Without workers' comp, you could be held liable if a worker is injured on your property.
Look for Certifications: High-quality contractors often have manufacturer designations (like being a certified installer for specific roofing or window brands), which shows they’ve undergone specialized training.
3. The "Rule of Three" for Estimates
Always get at least three written estimates to establish a baseline for the project’s cost.
Beware the Low-Ball Bid: If one estimate is significantly lower than the others, it’s a major red flag. They may be using inferior materials, skipping permits, or planning to hit you with "unforeseen" costs later.
4. Ask the Right Interview Questions
Before signing anything, have a face-to-face meeting (or a detailed phone call) and ask:
"How many other projects are you managing right now?" You want someone who is busy (a sign of quality) but not so overstretched that your project will languish.
"Who will be on-site every day?" Will it be the owner, a foreman, or a rotating crew of subcontractors?
"What is your process for change orders?" Unexpected issues happen. You need to know how they will document and price any changes to the original scope of work.
5. Check Recent References
A reputable company should have no problem providing a list of at least 3–5 recent clients. When you call them, don't just ask if they liked the finished product. Ask:
Did the crew show up on time?
Did they keep the job site clean?
Was the final price what was originally quoted?
The "Golden Question": "Would you hire them again?"
6. Spot the Red Flags
Trust your gut. If a contractor exhibits any of the following, move on:
Pressure Tactics: Offering a "special price" that is only good if you sign today.
Large Upfront Deposits: It is standard to pay a deposit (usually 10% to 33%), but never pay the full amount upfront.
Avoiding Permits: If they ask you to pull the permits yourself or say permits aren't necessary for a major job, they are likely trying to avoid inspections.
Final Thought
The best contractor isn't always the one with the flashiest website or the lowest price. It's the one who communicates clearly, respects your home, and stands behind their work with a solid warranty. Traverse City building repair wants to be the first name on your lips when a friend or family member asks for your recommendation.
