Call the Better Business Bureau in your region to find out if past customers have complained about the contractor. Be sure to ask the contractor for a copy of the standard contract for your review. Never sign a blank, standard contract. Once a contractor is chosen, you must have the managerial ability to schedule, coordinate, and control the contractor's work on your project so that work proceeds on time, within the established budget, and according to the quality specified. Always be prepared to pay fair market value for work performed so the contractor will be able to meet payroll and overhead costs, pay their suppliers, and still make a profit.
Cheap Contractors Are Never Inexpensive.
Cheap contractors may get the job for a cheap price, but you can probably count on work that is just as cheap. If you are paying a fair price for the work to be performed, you will foster trust and cooperation with your contractor from the beginning of your project. You can make the project run smoother by being ready for a contractor when they arrive on your site. In addition, provide as much lead time as possible to inform the contractor of the status of your job and any unexpected conditions which must be met. Nothing will replace your ability to think critically and analyze the unique circumstances surrounding your project.