When you’re ready for a new kitchen, bathroom, fireplace or garage door, you’re ready for it now. It’s easy to go with the first home remodel contractor that gives you and estimate. But it’s not a good idea. Don’t hire just any home remodel contractor, hire the best for the job you need done. Here’s how.

Do your research

Have you spent hours looking at appliances, flooring, fixtures and cabinets? Well, prepare to spend the same amount of time researching your contractor. First, start with friends, family, and neighbors that have actually used a contractor.

See a contractor’s sign in a yard? Don’t be afraid to ring the doorbell.  Ask the homeowner what they think about the work being done. If the neighbor isn’t home, leave a note with your name and number. Just ask for a reference.

When checking references, it’s a good idea to talk to people that have had similar work done.  Because, a contractor may be fabulous at removing a wall to open up a living area but not so great when it comes to the plumbing required for a bathroom remodel.

Compare apples to apples

When you are getting the three quotes everybody tells you to get, make sure they are quoting for the same work. Unless you’ve provided each contractor the exact specifications for the work you want done, (drawings, materials to use, and specific product names) each home remodel contractor is making assumptions.  The price quoted reflects these assumptions.

Know exactly what is included in the quote and the allowance for overage. One quote for a bathroom may appear to be considerably lower, but upon inspection may require the homeowner to purchase flooring, fixtures and/or lighting.

If you want custom cabinets, make sure all quotes include custom cabinets of the same quality and made of the same materials.

Some remodeling work requires a permit from the local government. If your job requires a permit, make sure the bid includes any permit fees and specifies that the contractor is responsible for the permit. A contractor that asks a homeowner to pull a permit is a red flag. It’s a sign the contractor has a problem with their license. And speaking of licenses, be sure to check.

Check licenses and insurance

Once you’ve decided that a contractor can do the work you want at a budget you can afford, it’s time to do more research.

Fortunately, the State of California makes it easy to check licenses. Just go to https://www2.cslb.ca.gov/OnlineServices/CheckLicenseII/CheckLicense.aspx and type in the name of the contractor. For example, type in Inspired Remodels and you get a page that tells you the license number and that the license is active. Just click the license number and discover the status of the contractor’s bond, workmen’s compensation insurance and the history of both.

Don’t hire a contractor that isn’t bonded and doesn’t carry worker’s compensation insurance. If the contractor’s employee gets hurt on the job at your house, you can be liable if worker’s compensation insurance isn’t in place. It’s not a risk you want to take.

Consider Inspired Remodels as your Home Remodel Contractor

When you start to collect quotes and talk to contractors, contact Inspired Remodels. You will find their reputation is sterling and their work is exceptional.

Call (949) 716-1938 and schedule a consultation. You’ll find Joe and Jason Mueller are Orange County’s property brothers. Their design and construction services that are truly inspired.