1. Verify Credentials and Licensing
Check Licensing: Confirm that the GC has a valid license to work in your area. You can verify this with your local licensing board.
Ensure Insurance: Make sure the GC has both general liability insurance and workers' comp insurance to protect you from any potential liabilities.
2. Assess Experience and Expertise
Review Past Work: Look at the GC’s portfolio to see their previous bathroom remodels. Pay attention to the quality of work and design style. You want to be sure they can actually execute the project that you have in mind.
Check Specializations: Ensure the GC has specific experience with bathroom remodels, which require knowledge of plumbing, waterproofing, and tiling.
3. Request and Contact References
Get References: Ask for references from past clients. Contact these clients to ask about their experience and satisfaction with the GC’s work. These are critical, and often overlooked. Don't be shy - call their references.
Read Online Reviews: Look up reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau to see what other clients have said about the GC. You want to make sure they aren't going to vanish in the middle of the job because they found a more lucrative gig.
4. Conduct Interviews
Meet in Person or Virtually: Schedule a meeting to discuss your project. Assess the GC’s communication skills, professionalism, and enthusiasm. If they are late, or can't articulate how they would execute the project, keep looking.
Ask Key Questions: Prepare questions about their process, timeline, use of subcontractors, and how they handle unexpected challenges. Any experienced GC should be able to answer these easily.
5. Obtain Detailed Estimates
Get Written Estimates: Request detailed written estimates from multiple GCs. These should break down costs for labor, materials, and other expenses. You don't want any unexpected costs that you were unaware of popping up at completion.
Compare Estimates: Compare the estimates to ensure they are comprehensive and transparent. Be wary of significantly low bids, as they may indicate hidden costs or lower quality.
6. Review Work Agreements
Get a Written Contract: Ensure the GC provides a detailed contract that outlines the scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, and terms and conditions.
Discuss Warranties: Talk about any warranties or guarantees on the work and materials, and make sure these are included in the contract. If the GC gets defensive when asked these questions, it is a red flag.
7. Evaluate Communication and Compatibility
Assess Communication: Ensure the GC communicates clearly and promptly. Good communication is essential for addressing concerns and making decisions during the project. Delayed or vague responses to texts & emails is another red flag.
Trust Your Instincts: Feel confident and comfortable with the GC. Trust your gut feeling about whether you can work well with them.