The Deck Pros Blog

Choosing a contractor is the most important decision you, as a homeowner, need to make when embarking on a residential construction project.  I’ve been in this business for well over 20 years; most of it building decks, porches and other outdoor structures here in NJ.  And I’ve seen some disastrous work in all aspects of the field.  From decks that have fallen off the side of the house to roofs that have collapsed under a snow load they should have easily carried.  And I’ve heard countless stories from homeowners who have paid a hefty deposit to their “contractor” only to never hear from him again.

If you take heed of the following advice, you can minimize your chances of any of the above scenarios.

#1  Check References!  This is the most important step you can take.  If the contractor doesn’t supply you with a long list of references, be very wary.   The references should be for jobs that are similar to what you are contemplating for your home.  Call a few references and arrange to view at least one job in person.  I tell my clients I can meet them at a job at a mutually convenient time if they desire.

#2  Check Insurance!  The State of NJ only requires contractors verify their Liability Insurance to become licensed.  Check and make sure the contractor also has Worker’s Compensation Insurance.  A certificate showing this can be mailed or faxed to you.  This is important!  In case of an accident involving an employee, the Worker’s Compensation Insurance will cover the expenses.  Many “fly-by-night” contractors do NOT have this insurance as it is very expensive.

#3  Ask your builder if he will be using sub-contractors to do the work.  If you are doing a large remodel, it is inevitable sub-contractors will be used.  This is standard practice.  If you are doing a single job, like a deck, find out if the contractor will be on the job with his employees or if he will sub out the work.  At Deck Pros, we only use our own employees.  I’ve found it is much easier to control the quality of work this way.

#4  Do NOT give a large deposit months in advance.  Many reputable contractors require a small deposit to hold your place on their schedule.  This is normal.  I’ve found I don’t need to do this at Deck Pros.  If we are building a deck, porch, screen room, etc. for you, we take the first payment the day we start the job.

#5  Ask for a BID, not an ESTIMATE.  There is an important distinction here.  A bid is the price you will pay for the job.  An estimate is just an educated guess at the cost.  At Deck Pros, we only give bids for our work.

#6  Get It In Writing!  The contract should be well-worded and clear as to the scope of the work.  Any changes should be done with a written change-order form signed by both parties.

99% of the problems I’ve seen in the residential construction business could have been avoided if the client had followed the advice above.  You work hard for your money.  Spend it wisely!

Jeff Bader
www.thedeckpros.com