How to Choose General Contractors in Virginia – A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Buyers

Your home is your most treasured possession, and an intimate space for your family and friends. Are you willing to allow just anyone to install new windows or doors, change the siding, or repair the roof of your home? Probably not. You want someone reliable, hardworking, and professional. Here’s how you can find general contractors in Virginia that have those qualities.

 

Step 1 – Get references from family, friends and colleagues

Prefer companies that have their office as close to you as possible, and that have a high-quality website which provides clear information about the contractor’s history, services, and portfolio.

 

Step 2 – Check for licenses

A licensed home improvement contractor works according to a code of ethics, can procure for you the necessary building permits, is acknowledged by local authorities, and can be brought to a court of law easily if he doesn’t live up to his promises. Don’t work with unlicensed contractors even if your mother recommends them.

 

Step 3 – Check for insurance

You want a contractor with both workman’s compensation and general liability insurance to make sure that everything is covered. Avoid generalcontractors in Virginia that don’t have insurance.

 

Step 4 – Get price estimates

A good building contractor will be able to provide a price estimate on the phone on your first call, without requiring an inspection of the property. Get estimates from several providers, always keeping in mind that you want to find an affordable home improvement company, but not a cheap one that does sloppy work.

 

Step 5 – Consider the down payment

Professional general contractors in Virginia do not normally request more than 30% as down payment. Be wary of contractors that ask for more, as they might be financially unstable. Goodcontractors should afford to buy the necessary materials needed for your project with their own money.

 

Step 6 – Learn more about the materials

If you plan to replace doors, windows, or roofing, and install new siding or build a deck, you will want high-quality materials. Cheaphome improvement contractors might do good work, but if they use poor materials it won’t last for more than 5 years or so. So make no compromises when it comes to materials – learn what materials your contractor uses and research the manufacturer.

 

Step 7 – Ask about the length of the project

Established general contractors in Virginia get the work done quickly, usually in a matter of weeks for home improvement projects, and a few months for home remodeling ones. You want a contractor that works quickly, but that doesn’t compromise the quality of the work.

 

Follow the guide above and you will find the right general contractors in Virginia for your needs.