Searching for the best contractor for your deck project can be tough, but don’t worry! You can find the right one by gathering info about each contractor you’re considering before making your decision.
Asking pertinent questions to a deck contractor from the beginning can streamline your search and aid in selecting a contractor whose approach aligns with your desired outcome. Since hiring can be complex, it’s beneficial to understand what working with a contractor entails and where to locate a suitable builder. So, what questions should you ask during a contractor interview?
Consider the following queries when interviewing potential contractors for your decking project.
Do you hold a valid license and are you bonded?
Working with a licensed contractor offers legal protection if their work is substandard or incomplete. Inquire if they have a surety bond to safeguard against disputes and request a copy before finalizing any agreements. While bonds may not always be mandatory depending on state regulations, the inability to provide requested or required credentials is a significant red flag.
Do you have insurance coverage?
For ultimate peace of mind, look for a contractor with general liability insurance. This protects both you and them in case of accidents. Request proof of insurance and confirm it covers all workers involved in your deck project.
What specific types of decks are you proficient in constructing?
While some contractors may lack extensive experience, they can still excel in their craftsmanship. Inquiring about their preferences for materials and tools can reveal much about the standard of their work. Additionally, it’s valuable to learn about their prior experience with the specific materials intended for your deck. Have they worked with composite decking, wood, or vinyl before? Understanding their comfort level with these materials can aid in assessing their suitability for your project.
What would you suggest for my project?
Although you may have a vision for the design of your desired deck, seeking an external perspective can be beneficial. Don’t hesitate to seek advice ranging from material choices to design styles. A seasoned contractor should possess knowledge regarding the benefits of various materials and their suitability for different environments. They should also have the insight to recognize when certain materials may not complement your home or backyard aesthetic.
Could you provide me with some references from previous clients?
When evaluating a contractor’s quality of work, examining their past successes is key. Inquire if they have handled similar projects previously and request examples for reference. Additionally, seeking references from past clients can offer valuable insights into the contractor’s professionalism and project management skills. For instance, if you admire a friend or neighbor’s deck, consider asking about their experience with the contractor who completed the project. Their firsthand account can provide valuable information about the contractor’s performance and reliability.
Can you describe your experience handling unexpected situations?
While frequently overlooked, inquiring about a prospective contractor’s approach to unforeseen challenges is crucial for preventing worst-case scenarios. Understanding their past problem-solving methods offers insight into how they might address future issues. Requesting details of a specific instance where problems arose and how they were resolved can provide valuable information. Learning about their approach to potential setbacks can offer reassurance about their ability to manage any unexpected issues that may arise during your project.
Could you provide an estimate of the time needed to complete the project?
Utilizing timelines enables the creation of project milestones, fostering accountability among all parties involved. Inquire whether the contractor can adhere to the proposed timeframe and explore the possibility of structuring payments based on these project milestones. While start dates are generally reliable, it’s important to acknowledge that firm completion dates may occasionally be beyond the contractor’s control, such as due to unexpected weather conditions or delays in material supply.
Do we need to acquire a permit for this project?
One of the fundamental questions in deck building is whether permits are required for your project, a detail any licensed contractor should be well-versed in. Typically, permits are indeed necessary. Although homeowners can often manage permits themselves, some contractors provide permitting services to simplify the process.
Is a deposit required for the project?
Expect to pay a deposit upfront to cover materials for your deck. This is usually around 25% of the total cost. Anything more than half is uncommon.
Asking questions is a good start, but finding the perfect contractor takes extra work! You can start narrowing down your choices and find qualified local deck builders right now.
Schedule an appointment to speak with our helpful deck specialists so you can finally enjoy your backyard! Send us a message online or contact Ankeny Deck Specialist at 515-553-9803