Before a homeowner chooses a kitchen remodeling contractor they need to know what sort of new kitchen they want. This should be done well ahead of time, indeed, maybe months or even years ahead of time. During the time of planning their kitchen the homeowner will also have to find a way to pay for it, whether through their own savings, or through a loan from their bank or other sources. A long planning time also gives the homeowner time to window-shop for fixtures, lights, sinks, counter tops, cabinets, flooring and anything else that will give them their dream kitchen.
Should A Homeowner Hire Professional Designers?
If the homeowner has the budget they have the option of hiring a professional designer. Professional designers have been trained to catch things the homeowner might not think of, like the clearance needed for a cabinet’s door to open all the way. A professional might also tend to be less impressed with the impossible kitchens often featured in home design magazines.
Where To Find Reputable Kitchen Contractors
There are many places to find reputable kitchen contractors. The homeowner should speak to people who’d had their kitchens installed or renovated by a contractor that they were satisfied with. They can also look up contractors in the Better Business Bureau, the Chamber of Commerce and professional construction and building organizations. Speaking to people who’ve had their kitchens remodeled should also give the homeowner an idea of what a kitchen remodel costs in their area.
Should They Get Multiple Quotes?
Getting multiple quotes or estimates is also a very good idea. The homeowner should end up with a list of contractors, then put the job out for bid. Though they shouldn’t immediately discount the highest and the lowest bid, they should be wary of them, especially the lowest bid. This might come from a very good contractor who’s new and needs the work, or a contractor who’s reputation is so bad that they also need the work.
What Questions Should Be Asked?
The homeowner should interview the contractors on their list and ask them the following questions:
• Are they licensed, bonded and do they carry insurance like Workmen’s compensation?
If the answer is no, they should be dismissed.
• How long have they been in business?
Though a new contractor can do great work, experience does count.
• How many kitchens have they renovated?
The more kitchens they’ve done and the more customers they’ve made happy, the better, usually.
What Should the Homeowner Expect Form a Quality Contractor?
The homeowner should expect the contractor to help draw up and sign a written contract. They should expect them to have a real address and not a P.O. Box number and a number where the company can be reached round the clock. They should expect a contractor whose workers are trustworthy, professional, highly skilled and clean up after themselves at the end of the work day.
Sue Ellen Moses is a contributor to many home improvement sites, including Uneda Roof, where she focuses on Home Energy Audits and other home improvement projects.