Published January 24, 2020
By Brandon Hamilton
A siding installation or replacement project is a significant investment that homeowners should not undertake on their own. Instead, you should leave the job to the professionals. However, you shouldn’t hire the first person that gives you a tempting offer. In fact, you should ask your potential contractors a few vital questions to determine if they are the right person for your project.
1. How long will the project take? – Before you sign the contract and finalize the deal with your contractors, be sure to ask them how long will the project take. By doing so, you’ll have an estimate as to how long your daily routine will be disrupted and can adequately prepare for such an event.
2. When is the payment expected? – Before you sign the contract, it’s vital that you ask your contractor this question. Once you’ve asked it, a reputable contractor will ask you for some money up front with the remainder to be paid upon the job’s completion. However, if contractors ask for the full amount or a larger sum, be on guard as they could be attempting to scam you.
3. Where is your office located? – To get the ball rolling with your potential exterior home contractors, ask them where their office is located. This is another way you can determine if your contractor is the right person for the job as an established contractor likely has an office in your area, allowing you to know that you aren’t dealing with a scammer.
4. Can I look at your reviews? – To better determine if your contractor can be trusted, ask them if they have any referrals or reviews. If they’re as trustworthy as they claim to be, they should have a few reviews singing their praises on their website or even a portfolio showcasing their previous works.
5. Are you insured? – This is the most important question you need to ask your contractor before you sign the dotted line. In fact, the answer to this question should always be “yes”. Otherwise, it’s best that you part ways and find a different contractor instead. This is because insurance guarantees that you are protected from any responsibility should the contractor be injured in your property for the duration of the project.
6. Are you licensed to work in my state? – Again, the answer to this question should be “yes” if you live in an area that requires its contractors to have the appropriate licenses. This is because each state has different building codes. If your contractor doesn’t have a proper license, and your property gets damaged, any legal issues will fall entirely on your shoulders.
Planning a siding or window installation project soon? Simply turn to Lincoln Exterior Renovations, your number one service provider for siding repair and installation projects. Give us a call at (403) 275-4871, or fill out our contact form to request a quote.
