Remodeling your kitchen is one of the finest methods of adding value to your house. It can enhance functionality, beautify your living space, and add value when it comes to resale value of your home. However, in the process of successfully remodeling a kitchen, there is one important decision that is required, and that is selecting the appropriate contractor.
It is the right contractor who can transform your dream kitchen into reality and the wrong one who will make the process a nightmare. The following is an all-inclusive guide that you can use to select the best contractor in your kitchen remodeling.
Define Your Kitchen Remodeling Goals
You must know what you want even before you begin a search to hire a contractor.
Know What You Want
Would you like your kitchen to be totally remodeled, or simply cosmetically redesigned? Do you need additional space, enhanced functionality, or a newer aesthetic? With a focused vision, you will be able to make your needs clear to potential contractors.
Set a Realistic Budget
Your budget will dictate what you can have and will assist you in obtaining contractors who are within that budget. Remember to have an emergency fund (10-20%) of unplanned costs.
Start Your Contractor Search
After knowing your objectives and budget, you can then begin to search for contractors that specialize in kitchen remodels.
Ask for Recommendations
Friends and family: A person whom you trust might have dealt with an excellent contractor.
Neighbors: Have any of your neighbors had any recent kitchen remodeling done? Ask them.
Real estate agents: They usually have local contractors that they can be sure about.
Use Online Resources
- Houzz
- Angi (formerly Angie’s List)
- HomeAdvisor
- Google reviews
- Yelp
Find high-rated, well-reviewed, and photographed projects of remodeled kitchen contractors.
Check Credentials
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure the contractor:
- Possesses a legitimate state license (depends on the state)
- Holds a liability policy
- Provides work-related insurance to the employees
These insure you against damages of property or injury at the workplace.
Certifications
Look for certifications from trusted organizations like:
- National Association of Realtors (NAR)
- Association of Home Applications and Remodeling (AHAR)
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Review Portfolios and References
A good contractor must be able to provide a list of kitchen projects that he/she has completed and must be ready to give references.
Evaluate Their Work
Ask to see:
- Before-and-after photos
- Styles of designs they have worked on
- Examples of projects that are like your projects
Talk to Previous Clients
Ask past customers about:
- Their overall experience
- The manner in which the contractor dealt with issues
- How the project progressed in terms of time and budget
Get Multiple Bids
At least three contractors should be requested to provide an estimate.
What Should Be in the Estimate?
An elaborate bid must consist of:
- Scope of work (demo, installation, finishing)
- Material expenses (cabinets, counter-tops, flooring)
- Labor costs
- Timeline
- Payment schedule
Don’t Automatically Choose the Lowest Bid
Intense underestimation may imply a corner cut or low quality of materials. Weigh price against reputation, communication, and experience of the contractor.
Ask the Right Questions
Questions to ask when interviewing contractors:
- How do you feel about the number of kitchen remodels that you have done over the past year?
- Do you or will you subcontract the work?
- What is your reaction to any unforeseen problems or time wastage?
- How soon do you plan to commence the project?
- Are you able to assist with permits and inspection?
Gauge how well they communicate. Good communication is key to a smooth remodeling process.
Understand the Contract
Always put a contract down on a project. It should be described fully and legally obligatory.
What Should Be in the Contract?
- Start and completion dates
- Payment terms
- Descriptive analysis of work
- Warranties
- Changing or disputing procedures
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Vague contracts
- Pressure to sign quickly
- Demands of big advance payments (more than 30% is suspect)
Check Their Communication Style
In the remodel, you will be in immediate contact with your contractor, so make sure they:
- Answer calls or e-mails in a timely manner
- Keep you updated in the process
- Are open and honest
A well communicating contractor will probably fun things smoothly even before the commencement of the project.
Visit an Active Job Site
Ask to pay a visit to an existing job site (where possible). A lot can be learned from the way a contractor conducts his projects.
Look for:
- A clean, organized site
- Respectful workers
- Safety measures under implementation
This provides you with an idea of what you will find in your own home.
Trust Your Instincts
Finally, go with your gut. When something strikes wrong, for instance, ineffective communication, unclear response, or being pushy, then it is right to leave. You will want to have a good feeling and be at ease with your contractor.
Bonus Tips for a Successful Remodel
Stay involved: Participate frequently and engage in questioning.
Don’t rush decisions: Do not hurry when deciding on materials and designs.
Document everything: Make an account of all contracts, payments, and communication.
Prepare for disruptions: Expect inconvenience and prepare to have a temporary kitchen.
