...and How to Avoid Them

Listening to the wrong people.  It never ceases to amaze me how many people take advice on their construction from people who are totally unqualified to give this critical advice.  Quite often, when I see construction messes, (which I see virtually every day) and ask where they got the idea to do this or that I inevitably hear things like:

"My brother-in-law told me to do that.  He used to work like this on the side when he was a student" -or-

"I asked the guy in the office next to mine.  He did the same thing to his home when he lived in Wisconsin" -or-

"I read and article by so-and-so that said we should..."

Everyone's got an opinion on what you should do with your remodeling dollars.  "Do it yourself" or "Hire the sub-contractors and run the project yourself", etc. Just because someone is your relative, friend, or thinks they know construction doesn't mean they know the answers to your remodeling questions or problems.  If you've got an idea or thought about improving your home, call a reputable, qualified professional to answer your questions.

Call at least three of the references you're given.  So many people start out on the right track by asking for reference but then never call them.   You can never learn too much about the contractor your are considering using.   Take a few minutes to talk to these people.  Most will be pleased to accept your calls.  It will be worth it!  Ask if the job was done on time and at the agreed upon price.  Ask if the contractor was easy to reach and easy to deal with.

Visit the references and see example work.  You can learn a lot by seeing the finished product.  If the contractor is good, many previous clients are extremely proud of their "new" home and will be glad to let you look.  See a job in progress.  Is the job site clean or are tools and materials strewn about like a hurricane just blew through?  Is everything dusty and dirty, or is it covered or sealed off?  Chances are if a contractor keeps his work sites clean and net, especially at the end of the day when it's time to go home, you've got a conscientious contractor.