What kind of contractor should i hire

Plastering Some walls are made of plaster, which today is also usually made of gypsum. Plastering a wall is a more labor-intensive and time-intensive process than drywalling, and thus there are plastering subcontractors who specialize in the technique. Though some homeowners opt to do this step themselves. Wallpaper Installer Going bold on your walls with a patterned wallpaper? Hire a wallpaper installer to ensure a smooth application.

Or try a peel-and-stick type yourself. Heating and Air-Conditioning HVAC Central heating and air-conditioning is one of the blessings of newer homes, and there are heating, ventilation, and air conditioning HVAC contractors who specialize in installing, repairing, and maintaining everything from your furnace to your ductwork. Your general contractor will hire a roofer for the job.

Some roofers can also help you with your gutters. Landscapers Your yard needs a little love too—hire a landscaping contractor to help you plant new greenery or mulch your flowerbeds. Ironworker Sure, ironworkers are perhaps better known in the commercial industry than the home-building industry, but private residences do feature wrought-iron balustrades on occasion.

Steelworker Steelworkers, like ironworkers, are also better known for large-scale projects, but again—if you need steel beams installed during your home renovation project, you'll need one. Be cautious of estimates that are too high or too low. Local contractors are easier to contact if problems develop with the work in the future, and they are more likely to be familiar with building codes in your area.

Ask the contractor for their local, physical address. Be suspicious of anyone who goes door-to-door or refuses to leave a contract overnight. How has their worked turned out in the past? Do they specialize in the kind of work you want done? Check references about the quality of their products, their workmanship and their customer service.

Inquire about their professional reputation and years in business with the Better Business Bureau. A contractor with more than five years of experience is preferable.

Get multiple bids before making a decision. Be cautious when asked to pay a large deposit up front. Make sure to read the fine print on all estimates and contracts. Make sure the contractor is properly insured and bonded. Ask the contractor for a certificate of insurance COI , which should provide the name of the insurance company, policy number and policy limits the contractor carries.

You can contact the insurance company directly to verify the coverage and make sure the policy is still in effect. Do not do business with a contractor who does not carry the appropriate insurance coverage. If the contractor is not insured, you may be liable for accidents that occur on your property.

Travelers Insurance allows you to customize your coverage to fit your unique needs. We focus on understanding you, so you'll feel right at home working with us. Secure a comprehensive contract before work begins. Get everything in writing, and make sure the contract is clear and well written. Consider having a lawyer review the proposed contract for your protection before you sign it if the project involves substantial costs.

The contract should include:. Changes to the contract should be acknowledged by all parties in writing. Ask the contractor for confirmation that he or she has obtained all applicable building permits. Written notification of the cancellation should be sent by registered mail to ensure you have proof of the cancellation. Check with the Federal Trade Commission and the laws of your state to understand your rights. Be sure to follow applicable rules during the cooling off period.

If you do cancel, consider sending the notice of cancellation by registered mail to ensure you have proof of the cancellation. Make sure you make checks payable to a company, not an individual, and do not pay in cash. Select your project type and enter your ZIP code below to get started.

Or scroll down to read more about Contractor Connection. If you have already submitted a project request, enter your project number and email address below to view the status of your project. When to Hire a General Contractor. The responsibilities of a general contractor Residential contractors oversee and coordinate nearly every aspect of a home improvement or remodeling project. When should you hire a general contractor? If you think a week or more is needed, consider hiring a general contractor.

With his or her knowledge of the time any subcontractors will need, the contractor can keep things moving smoothly. How will your local building codes affect your project? If you decide to do such a project yourself, you could face substantial fines.