Tips for Hiring a General Contractor

I offer new construction interior design services, and I've learned a lot throughout my career. When building a new home, effective communication—both verbal and written—is crucial. It's also essential to work with reputable and reliable builders. However, before you sign a contract, several critical topics must be discussed with your contractor. Their answers can mean the difference between a successful and a problematic construction project.

Here are the four topics I recommend you discuss with a prospective builder.

1. Who Will Manage My Project?

Every building project should have a dedicated project manager. They will work closely with you throughout construction and serve onsite as your eyes and ears. (They also serve as the builder's eyes and ears.)

Ask the builder:

• How often will the builder visit and inspect the site?

• Who will manage the build daily, and how often will they be at the project?

• Will I have a single dedicated project manager? (It is much smoother to have the same manager throughout.)

• Will the project manager be my primary contact, and if they're not available, whom do I contact?

2. Is Everything Listed in Your Quote?

Many homeowners assume that a builder's quote includes everything they need to know - and pay for. Unfortunately, that isn't always the case. Do not be shy about asking them to go through their quote with you, item by item, to ensure it's transparent and you understand it.  

A reliable and reputable builder should provide a detailed quote that includes the items below and details about each one.   

• Site preparation or landscape: New construction quotes should include land excavation and, possibly, hardscapes and landscapes.

• Labor and permits: detailed breakdown of labor and permit costs

• Materials: cost of all materials for your project - from top to bottom of the build, including items like floors, sheetrock, lighting, and cabinetry

• Connection fees: Some new construction will need power, water, and gas connections to the city or county, which can be a sizeable expense

• Overages, upgrades, and extras: Does the quote allow some financial padding for overages, last-minute upgrades, or extras?

• Dispute Resolution: How do you address the conflict resolution process in your contract?

3. What If There's an Issue During Construction?

It's not unusual for something to go wrong during construction. Weather, vendor scheduling, or supply chain delays can affect your project. How your builder handles and communicates issues contributes significantly to the overall project experience and outcome.

Ask about:

• How and when do you communicate with clients when something unexpected occurs?

• How will you handle delays, and when will you inform me?

• What is your process for changes in selections or budget challenges?

• What is your process for approving budget changes?

• Do you carry builder's insurance, and will it cover me if something goes wrong onsite?

• What warranties are included?

4. How Many Projects Do You Handle at Once?

Reputable builders often work on multiple projects simultaneously. An experienced builder handles that well, usually without problems.

Even so, it's worth asking a few questions.

• Will you be doing other projects when you do mine?  

• Do you have a dedicated team or manager for each job, or will a manager run several projects?

• How do you ensure each project gets adequate attention?

• How do you avoid or manage scheduling conflicts?

I hope these tips have been helpful. I'm happy to consult with you regarding your project.