Choose the Right Patio Builder
If you are currently looking for patio builders in your area to make your outdoor dreams come true, you might be wondering how to pick the right contractor for the project.
Having apprehension when choosing a contractor is common (we have all heard horror stories), but it doesn’t have to be a daunting task. There are plenty of great commercial general contractors out there who could help you out. You only have to make a little effort to look for them.
Here are a few things you want to do when choosing patio builders (or any other contractor that you might need for that matter) before having them get to work on your construction or remodeling project.
Reviews and Online Reputation
A little research on a particular contractor before hiring them can go a long way toward being sure they are the right one before you sign a contract.
Make sure to read customer reviews from multiple sources whenever possible. One thing to make a note of when doing this is to pay attention to how the contractor responded to any negative reviews (if they reacted publicly, many do respond but not for all to see).
The main thing you need to do is look at the overall ratio of the number of reviews combined with the ratings they received.
For example, patio builders who have a 4.3-star rating and have more than 30 reviews is a good ratio, whereas a company that has a 3.7-star rating and only has eight reviews might be one you want to avoid.
View Our Reviews
Warranties and References
A legible and legal warranty on all work performed should always be standard, and any contractor worth working with should not only present you with one before you sign an agreement but be able to answer any questions about it.
A contractor who offers a vague warranty contract or one who trips and stumbles over trying to explain terms or answers regarding their warranty is almost always one you want to avoid!
Likewise, asking the contractor for a minimum of 5 local references and contacting them about their experience is an excellent way to avoid the nightmare of having someone rip you off.
View our Warranty Information
Get Everything in Writing
Make your desire to have everything in writing known early on, and tell the contractor what your expectations are upfront regarding material costs, labor costs, the estimated time the project will take, and any other details you want in writing.
One significant thing to add to any signed agreement like this is to make sure the contractor knows they must inform you of any changes or additions to what is agreed upon as the project begins. This step can save you from extra charges and possible litigation fees down the road.
Never Pre-pay for Labor, Ask for Material Receipts
While having patio builders ask you for money to purchase materials before beginning a construction project is very common, you should be concerned if they ask you to pay for any labor costs before work begins.
One way to ensure that everything is on the up and up is to ask for copies of all material receipts.
This small and simple request can ensure that everything the contract states is being followed, protecting you from inflated costs and keeping everyone honest from start to finish.
