23
Nov
Steps to Take When Choosing a Home Remodeler
Choosing a home remodeler can feel overwhelming. With so many “handymen” and even the popular “DIY culture” it can be hard to know when and if you need a licensed General Contractor like June Belle Homes. We hope this list will give you some great ideas to consider before you make your decision!
- While there are many “builders/remodelers” out there, you may be shocked to find that many are not Licensed General Contractors. “What is the difference between a handyman and a general contractor?” you may ask. Check out this helpful article explaining the important differences. To check and see if you are working with a Licensed professional, search the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors here. June Belle Home’s license number is 84351.
- Contact your local home builders’ association for the names of member builders and remodelers. You can also ask family, friends or coworkers for recommendations.
- Make sure the builder or home remodeler has a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers. A remodeler with a design studio/showroom to make your selections is a plus.
- Find out how long they have been in the building business. It usually takes three to five years to establish a financially sound business. You want to make sure they will be around after the construction is complete to service any warranties. Owner/Contractor Justin Keisler has been in the construction business for 15 years and June Belle Homes LLC is an entirely debt-free company.
- Check out the company’s rating and if there have been any complaints filed with your local Better Business Bureau: bbb.org.
- Make sure the builder/remodeler has sufficient workers compensation and general liability insurance. If not, you may be liable for any construction-related accidents on your premises. June Belle Homes LLC meets coverage limits of that recommended by NAHB.
- Ask the builder/remodeler to provide you with names of previous customers. If they won’t, beware. If they do, ask the customers if they would hire the builder/remodeler again. We gladly provide references, and provide countless testimonials on both our website, recommendations on our Facebook and Google Business page.
- Ask if you can see the builder/remodelers work, both completed and in progress. Check for quality of workmanship and materials. View our Project gallery here.
- Do you feel you can easily communicate with the builder/remodeler? Remember you will be in close contact with them throughout the construction process and afterward as you live in your new home. During our free, initial consultation, Owner/Contractor Justin Keisler will take the time to answer questions, explain our process, and begin a relationship of professionalism, dependability and trust.
- Make sure the builder/remodeler provides you with a complete and clearly written contract. The contract will benefit both of you. At June Belle Homes, we have well written, detailed agreements that protects you, as the homeowner. Expect nothing less from your contractor.
- Be cautious of unusually low-priced bids. If the builder/remodeler is unable to pay for the materials and labor as the project proceeds, this may indicate a potential problem. Part of our business is contracting with tradesmen in their specific fields (ie, electricians, plumbers, etc.) We can promise that the “cheapest guy” isn’t always the right guy for the job. At June Belle Homes, we put our name on every project – and we only work with subcontractors who we consider to be top quality. This is your home, and we don’t intend on cutting corners.
- Verify that your remodeler is an EPA Lead-Safe Certified Renovator if you are planning work in a pre-1978 home that will disturb more than six square feet of painted surfaces inside the home or 20 square feet on the exterior of the home. Learn more about the EPA’s lead paint rule.
This comprehensive checklist was adapted by a publication by the National Association of Home Builders, and you can view the original article here.