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FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE | WENATCHEE WORLD 2020
How To Choose A Contractor For Your Home
Are you envisioning your beautifully remodeled home or efficient upgrades? Home improvements are exciting! Actually doing the work might not be. It can be tempting to quickly pick a contractor or DIY an unfamiliar project to finish fast. However, picking the right person for the job is the most important step in making sure it’s done correctly. No one dreams of ill-fitting windows or chancy electrical work. WHY HIRE A CONTRACTOR? Many home improvement projects are great to DIY, like attic insulation.
For other projects, you might need a contractor for safety and permitting ease. Work done incorrectly – including HVAC, plumbing and electrical – can be unsafe or not work properly. Plus, contractors can save you money by identifying projects that may be eligible for rebates. HOW TO HIRE A CONTRACTOR 1. Get Recommendations Make a starter list of 5-10 contractors to narrow down. Ask friends or post on social media for recommendations (or contractors to avoid). Check out online reviews and local building associations.
2. Use a Certified Contractor Verify a contractor’s registration online with the Department of Labor. Don’t use a contractor unless they’re licensed, bonded and insured. Upgrading your HVAC and live in Chelan County? Visit ConservationMakesCents.org for a list of certified heat pump contractors and get up to $1,400 in rebates from Chelan PUD. 3. Get Multiple Written Bids Ask for a written bid from at least three contractors, ideally with itemized pricing so you know what’s included and can compare them. Remember that
