There are a lot of tasks around the house that can be billed as home improvement jobs — replacing flooring, painting or installing a garage door, for instance. It may seem like hiring a contractor isn’t necessary for these jobs, but in many cases, it can be the best way to get them done quickly and properly.
If you have a larger project on your hands, it makes sense to hire an experienced general contractor who has the resources and connections to bring in subcontractors as needed. This can help you save time, money and headaches by ensuring all work is completed on time and by the right professionals.
Angi, which started as Angie’s List and provides background checks on contractors for a fee, can connect you with home improvement professionals who are licensed, insured and bonded. It’s also worth asking for references from past clients so you can gauge dependability and integrity.
You’ll also want to ensure your contractor carries liability and worker’s compensation insurance. It’s not uncommon for accidents to occur on the job, and you don’t want the cost of repairs to be your responsibility.
Lastly, make sure your home improvement contractor is licensed by your county or state’s governing body. It’s a good idea to check with your local government’s licensing website and see whether you need to verify any certifications, says Gauldin. This is especially important for trade-specific contractors, who often need to be licensed in order to perform certain tasks — such as plumbers and electricians.