You’ve got a big project on the horizon – maybe a new bathroom, a kitchen remodel, or your roof needs to be redone.  Time to call a contractor!  But before you hire someone, here are some “must-dos” that will help insure that your project gets done safely, legally, and to your satisfaction.

• Hire a licensed You need to know that your contractor knows what he/she is doing. For larger jobs, that means that they should have a Construction Supervisor’s License. Check your state’s web site to verify that the license is in good standing.  Click here for the MA state licensing board.
• Make sure they are insured and follow safe practices. Obviously, you don’t want someone on your roof without a harness, but accidents can happen anywhere. A good general contractor has the proper insurance.
• Check references. Ask the contractor for references for clients with similar projects. Follow up with an online search for reviews on Yelp, Angie’s List and the Better Business Bureau.
• Are they using their own in-house team or are they hiring subs? Find out how long they have been working with their sub-contractors. Long-term relationships with sub-contractors, including plumbers, electricians, and painters, are very telling. If a general contractor has new subs it could be a red flag that he doesn’t pay them on time or there have been other issues.
• Get it in writing. You should insist on a written contract that spells out exactly what work is included, the timeline, and a specific payment schedule that should be based on milestones (for example, electrical work complete = next payment due).