Remodeling your kitchen is a big task; it takes time and money, so you want to ensure that your kitchen is in the hands of an experienced professional, whether it’s someone to talk to so you can learn more about terrazzo tiles or who has a better understanding of how to remodel your kitchen, a contractor can help.
When you’re ready to hire a kitchen remodeling contractor, it can take time to know which one is best for the job. It’s a good idea to look into each company you’re considering and ask your friends and neighbors for recommendations.
However, there are also certain red flags that should make you think twice about hiring a certain contractor. So, here are a few things to avoid when hiring a kitchen remodeling professional:
An Unlicensed contractor
You should avoid unlicensed contractors because they might not be as qualified as you would like. In addition, if a contractor has yet to be licensed and inspected, it is possible that they need to be trained properly in the industry. This could lead to problems with your home or business, such as unexpected costs or even damage from poor workmanship.
You may also be putting yourself at risk of contracting fraud. Unlicensed contractors are more likely than those who are licensed to take advantage of clients by performing shoddy work or charging them for services that were never performed.
An Uninsured contractor
You should avoid uninsured contractors because they are less likely to be covered in the event of a lawsuit or if they cause damage to your home or property. If a contractor is not insured, you will have no recourse if they damage or destroy your home or property—and if they do, it could cost you thousands in repairs.
If a contractor is uninsured, they are also more likely to skip out on paying their workers. Because they don’t have to worry about being sued by their employees, they can get away with paying them less than other contractors would have to. This leaves employees vulnerable and makes them more likely to skip out on doing what was originally agreed upon in their contract.
Contractor who doesn’t have references/portfolio
When hiring a contractor, it’s important to find one with a good reputation. You can do this by asking for references and looking at their portfolio of previous work. If they need both of these things, proceed with caution, as this may mean they are not the best fit for your project.
Contractor who wants you to pay upfront for materials
It is important to note that most contractors will not ask for money upfront. This is a red flag and should be avoided at all costs. The contractor may be trying to get you to pay for materials that they do not need or use, which can be costly and risky.
Contractor does not provide change orders in writing
You should only hire a contractor who provides change orders in writing. A change order is a written document that outlines the scope of work, amount to be paid and any additional costs or delays that may occur as a result. It protects you from unexpected costs and delays while helping you manage your budget throughout the project’s duration. If a contractor fails to provide this documentation, it is likely they are attempting to cut corners at your expense.
In the end, ensuring you’ve done your homework before hiring kitchen remodeling contractors is the best way to ensure that you get a quality job and don’t get headaches down the road.