How to Choose a Contractor for Your Home

from 2020 Fall Home Improvement Guide

Backyard Upgrades on a Budget

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

cheapest isn’t always best.

4. Check References and BBB Ratings

Talk with past customers and make sure the contractor is in good standing with the Better Business Bureau.

5. Don’t Pay in Full until the Job is Done

Pay after the work is completed as detailed in your bid.

DON’T LEAVE IT TO FATE

No one thinks poor quality work can happen to them, but our energy advisers have uncovered subpar work during inspections and home energy audits.

Follow these steps to find the best contractor and ensure quality work on your home every time. Also, take advantage of Chelan PUD rebates to improve your home energy efficiency and save money.