Hiring a Contractor

Hiring a contractor for your home improvement project can be challenging. Below are some resources to help you find and hire a quality contractor to complete your home improvement project.

Work Scope

An important first step in with any home improvement project is to identify and understand all of the work that needs to be completed. This will help you ask the right questions and select the right contractor. Once you have determined what work needs to be done, you should verify if any permits will be required to complete the project. This information is available through your local code enforcement or permit office such as the City of Syracuse Central Permit Office. Permit information can be usually be found on your city, town or village's website.

Research

Finding the right contractor with a solid reputation is the next step. Here are some tips on how to find a contractor:

  • Ask you friends, family or co-workers for recommendations.

  • Search the internet using a popular search engine like Google to find contractors in your area.

  • Check with your local Better Business Bureau to see if a contractor is certified or has had any complaints filed.

  • Need lead or asbestos removal? Check the EPA's website to find a certified contractor.

Meet the Contractor

Call at least three contractors and set up a time for them to come to your home to provide you with a free, written estimate. Ask questions! Have you completed similar projects in the past? Will you be using a subcontractor for the project? What is specific timeline for the completion of the project? It is also important to ask for professional references and check them! 

Resources

There are many reputable online resources to help guide you through the process of hiring a qualified contractor. Here are some good places to start:

211 Herbert St Contractor