Finishing a basement is a project that can add tremendous value to a home. It can also be a project that can leave homeowners feeling frustrated if they choose the wrong contractor to complete the job. When hiring contractors in Woodstock to help you with a basement finishing job, there are a few things to consider before you shake hands and complete the hiring process. Here are 5 questions to ask during the interview process. How Long Have You Been in Business? You do not want your basement to be someone’s first job. While everyone needs to get their start somewhere, hiring a newbie contractor for a project as large as a basement remodel is not a good idea. Stick with contractors who have several jobs successfully completed for the best results. Do You Specialize in Basement Remodels? Today’s basement remodels tend to have many features that make them appear to be an extension of the home. If you didn’t know better, you wouldn’t even believe you were in the basement. The reason that these basement remodels look this way is because professional basement contractors know what specific issues need to be addressed when finishing this area of the house. For example, water-tightness is very important in a basement and a project should never proceed until any moisture or foundation problems are addressed. Contractors that do not specialize in basement finishing and treat your project like any other home remodeling project should be dismissed. Are You and Your Subcontractors Licensed? Most homeowners always think to ask for a general contractor’s proof of licensing. It’s the subcontractor credentials that can be overlooked. Anyone who steps foot into your home, picks up a tool, and completes any part of the project should have a valid license. It is the general contractor’s job to make sure this happens. Always ask for current copies of licenses and keep these in a safe place in case you need them in the future. Are You Local? Always hire a local contractor. Out-of-state contractors or even contractors several counties away may be less motivated to finish a job in a timely manner. Another concern with hiring contractors who are not local is that they may not meet the licensing requirements of your city and they may not have correct knowledge of all building codes, etc. What Is the Estimated Completion Date? One of the greatest frustrations that homeowners express when having home remodeling work done is that sometimes it can go on and on. Having workers in your home day after day for weeks can be tiring and it can make you feel like you’re in a holding pattern. A project like a basement remodel will take some time, but a good contractor will give you an estimated completion date and try to work within a reasonable window of time around that date. To get the best basement remodel possible, take your time when hiring contractors in Woodstock. Ask for referrals, view past work, and make sure that you’re comfortable with the person you hire for the best experience.
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