How To Choose the right General Contractor for your Home Remodeling Project

Entrusting your home to someone else can be nerve-wracking, and your experience will be markedly different based on a single decision you’ll make – even before the first hammer is swung. Knowing how to choose the right contractor to work with you on your home remodeling project will have a significant impact on your project’s budget, the quality of the work, and the predictability of each construction phase.

In this article, we will discuss the process of hiring help for your next home remodeling project. Who is available to hire, their expertise and how the project works, and how to screen out different remodeling contractors to choose the one that will work best with you, your project, and your family. Whether it’s as simple as painting cabinets or putting up a new roof, or as difficult as a full custom home build. Your contractor partner should be local to McMinnville, should make sure everything gets done right and the way you expect it. Knowing how to pick a good contractor that fits your needs is a big part of making your home projects successful.

What is a General Contractor

A general contractor is a professional responsible for overseeing and managing construction or remodeling projects from start to finish. They act as the primary point of contact and coordinator, ensuring that all aspects of the project are completed successfully. 

The main responsibilities of a general contractor include:

• Project Planning: General contractors work closely with clients to understand their goals, requirements, and budget. They develop a comprehensive project plan, including timelines, milestones, and budgets, to guide the entire construction process.
• Hiring and Supervising Subcontractors: General contractors have a network of trusted subcontractors, such as plumbers, electricians, and carpenters. They coordinate and manage these subcontractors, ensuring they are skilled, reliable, and complete their tasks according to schedule.
• Procurement of Materials and Equipment: General contractors handle the procurement of construction materials, ensuring they are of the required quality and within budget. They also arrange for the necessary equipment and tools needed for the project.
• Building Permits and Regulatory Compliance: General contractors are familiar with local building codes and regulations. They obtain the necessary permits and ensure that the project complies with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Project Management and Coordination: General contractors oversee the entire project, ensuring that each phase progresses smoothly and on schedule. They coordinate the activities of various subcontractors, schedule inspections, and address any issues or delays that may arise.
• Quality Control and Inspections: General contractors are responsible for maintaining quality standards throughout the project. They conduct regular inspections to ensure that the work meets industry standards and client expectations.

General Contractor Qualifications

Contractors serving McMinnville in Oregon need to have completed training and passed the Oregon state test before receiving your Contractors Construction Board license. Make sure your contractor has the right documents before even considering hiring them. You are more vulnerable than you know if you hire a contractor without the right license for our area. Other things you can ask for are evidence of:

• Relevant experience: Ensure they have experience in the type of work you need.
• Required permits: Confirm that they have the necessary permits for your project or have obtained them in the past
• Good reviews: Look for positive feedback from previous clients on their social profiles or ask. tospeak with their past clients. Here’s some of our reviews – we have the best in McMinnville!
• Personal liability insurance : Make sure they have insurance that covers personal liability.
• Worker’s compensation : Check if they provide worker’s compensation for their employees.
• Property damage coverage : Verify that they have coverage for property damage.

What are the Benefits of Hiring a General Contractor

Hiring a general contractor offers several advantages for homeowners undertaking construction or remodeling projects especially when compared to doing it yourself:

• Expertise and Experience: General contractors have extensive knowledge and experience in the construction industry. They understand the intricacies of different trades, construction techniques, and materials, ensuring that the project is executed efficiently and to a high standard.
• Time and Cost Savings: General contractors streamline the construction process, minimizing delays and cost overruns. Their expertise in project management, budgeting, and procurement helps optimize resources and complete the project within the agreed-upon timeframe and budget.
• Network of Reliable Subcontractors: General contractors have established relationships with skilled subcontractors. They can select the most suitable professionals for each aspect of the project, ensuring that qualified individuals handle specialized tasks.
• Stress Reduction: Hiring a general contractor alleviates the burden of managing the project yourself. They take care of all the logistical aspects, including scheduling, permits, and coordination, allowing you to focus on other priorities without the stress of overseeing every detail.
• Quality Assurance: General contractors prioritize quality control and ensure that all work meets industry standards. They monitor progress, address issues promptly, and ensure the project is completed to the client’s satisfaction.

Services a General Contractor Offers

General contractors often specialize in specific projects, such as roofing, house painting, additions, bathroom remodeling, or kitchen remodeling, while others are versatile and handle various tasks. Regardless of the project, their responsibilities encompass providing labor, equipment, and necessary materials.

General contractors can manage a range of projects, including:

• New construction
• Renovation
• Remodel
• Painting
• Electric
• Plumbing
• Woodworking
• Flooring
• Roofing
• Siding

WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR WHEN CHOOSING A GENERAL CONTRACTOR?

Choosing the right general contractor is crucial for the success of your project. There are many ways to hire the wrong person for your project, so here is a brief guide on key factors to consider when making this important decision.

CHOOSE A CONTRACTOR THAT IS LICENSED

Hiring a licensed contractor ensures you are hiring someone with the knowledge and training requirements set by the local and state government.

This gives greater peace of mind that your home will pass safety examinations. This becomes especially important when you sell your home. Work that is not permitted or done in an unsatisfactory way will delay the sale of the home and drive down your home value, not to mention likely not last as long as proper construction.

If you are curious, All Building Construction is fully licensed. You can see our license verified on the state website by clicking this link.

MAKE SURE THE CONTRACTOR IS INSURED

When seeking a contractor, ensure they have two crucial insurances: general liability and worker’s compensation.

Ask for proof of insurance to safeguard yourself and make sure the contractor is protecting his team. Lack of either one suggests a low responsibility level I wouldn’t trust on my own home. General liability covers property damage that occurs during the project, while worker’s compensation protects against injuries on your property, preventing you from being held liable. Additionally, ensure the contractor is bonded, providing added protection and assurance that the work will be completed satisfactorily.

HAVE EVERYTHING PUT IN WRITING

To avoid misunderstandings, insist on a detailed, written estimate for the job. If the contractor is unwilling to provide it in writing, it’s advisable to seek a second opinion from another contractor to ensure clarity and transparency. When you work with All Building Construction everything will be delivered in writing.

PICK A PROFESSIONAL WITH EXPERIENCE SPECIFIC TO YOUR PROJECT

When selecting a contractor, it’s crucial to match their skills and expertise with the specific job requirements. Ensure they have experience in the type of work you need.

Look up photos of their past projects to assess the quality of their work and determine if it aligns with your preferences. This step helps ensure satisfaction with the results.

ASK FOR REFERRALS FROM FRIENDS AND FAMILY

Word of mouth is a reliable way to discover quality work. If friends or family have had similar work done on their homes, ask for recommendations.

Seeing the work in person provides an extra benefit, allowing you to assess the contractor’s workmanship and make a more informed decision.

ASK THE CONTRACTOR FOR REFERENCES

Reading online testimonials on platforms from past clients can be valuable when selecting a contractor.

These reviews often include photos of previous projects, offering a visual representation of the contractor’s work. Additionally, a reputable contractor should provide their own references and a portfolio of past work for you to assess, giving you confidence in their capabilities. We have over 30 referenceable clients in and around McMinnville on our Google Maps profile you can read through!

HAVE A CLEAR PROJECT TIMELINE

During the contractor interview, inquire about the expected duration of the project to ensure alignment of expectations from the outset.

Additionally, discuss what happens if the work exceeds the projected timeline. This proactive approach helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures transparency in case of any delays.

Questions to Ask a General Contractor

When you begin the interview portion of hiring a contractor, there are some questions you may not have thought to ask when determining when to hire someone. The more thorough you are in the interview process, the more certain you can be with your end selection.

Before hiring a general contractor, ensure they are the right fit by asking key questions:

• How long has your company been in business?
• What experience do you have with this type of project?
• Do you have the necessary permits or licenses?
• Do you have references?
• What is the cost estimate?
• What is the timeline for this project?
• Are you insured?

Choosing the Right General Contractor

Ideally, your chosen contractor will possess the necessary experience, expertise, and required permits and licenses for your project. If they meet these criteria, it’s advisable to check with the Better Business Bureau for any complaints (we have none). While having a complaint is not an automatic rejection, it’s crucial to contact the contractor and inquire about the resolution of the specific issue.

The right general contractor for you will be skilled, experienced, trustworthy, and professional. Once you identify a contractor with these qualities, you can confidently move forward with your project.

Payment Options

It’s crucial to have a discussion about payment options and budget with your general contractor before they commence work. Pricing can vary among contractors, as there are no industry standards.

Regardless of the price, avoid making cash payments. Instead, opt for payment methods like checks or credit cards for smaller projects. For more substantial projects, consider arranging financing. If a contractor insists on cash payments, it could be a red flag for a potential scam.

In the state of Oregon, owners must make progress payments no later than 14 days after the date billing is received. After work is approved, you only have 7 days to make the final payment. While down payments are common, it’s essential to be aware of state regulations, as some states have limits on the amount a contractor can request as a down payment. In Oregon, a contractor can ask for 50% of the project cost upfront to pay for the necessary materials and labor required to get started. There are many resources, online that discuss your rights in Oregon when hiring a contractor privately. Doing research ensures you are informed and protected throughout the payment process.

Disadvantage of Hiring Unlicensed or Uninsured Contractors

Contractors without the necessary licenses or insurance can pose considerable risks to homeowners. Unlicensed contractors may lack the required expertise and knowledge to perform work up to industry standards.

Additionally, their lack of appropriate liability insurance exposes homeowners to potential accidents, property damage, or legal disputes. It’s crucial to prioritize hiring licensed and insured contractors to ensure the safety and quality of the work conducted on your property.

Contact All Building Construction for All Your Building Construction Needs!

“I hired Mark to do a large renovation due to water damage. So happy I did! I can’t say enough about the workmanship and his crew. They were reliable, dependable, honest, trustworthy, respectful and fun to be around. They were incredibly good with my special needs son, interacting, patient, taking the time to show him things he was curious about and so understanding of his needs in the process of construction and times constraints. Mark was genuinely concerned about making the process as easy as possible for our situation from insurance claims to picking good materials through the final project. He does not cut corners, will do the job correctly and pays attention to detail. If you need a small or large reno or new construction I would highly and most definitely recommend Mark. We are so blessed that he was recommended to us.” – Laura K.

Planning a home makeover in McMinnville or the greater surroudning area? All Building Construction is here to help make your construction project a smooth experience, just the way you want it. Enjoy the ease of working with a reliable, skilled partner dedicated to transforming your space with precision and care.

Your quest to enhance your living space should have top-notch craftsmanship and attention to detail. All Building Construction ensures every part of your remodel, from getting permits to the final check, meets your expectations. Trust a respected leader in construction to handle your project professionally.

Choosing a general contractor is about trust and peace of mind for homeowners. Let a team of dedicated experts lead the way and create a finished product that goes beyond your expectations.

Ready to step into your dream home? Connect with All Building Construction, your go-to local option for a skilled general contractor in McMinnville, OR. Request your estimate today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a general contractor worth it?

Yes, hiring a general contractor can be worth it, especially for complex projects or renovations. A general contractor oversees the entire construction process, coordinating subcontractors, managing timelines, and ensuring the project meets quality standards, saving you time and potential stress.

What not to say to a general contractor?

Working with a general contracting company is more intimate than many other professional relationships because you will be navigating so many decisions together. That said, any disparaging remarks make the relationship more difficult. As a contractor, it’s part of our job to protect our relationship and keep the ideas and decisions flowing. There is nothing completely off limits when working with a GC outside of what you normally might not say to an individual in your daily life. Project details will be fixed and customer service is always front of mind.

Why do general contractors charge so much?

General contractors have to charge an appropriate amount that encapsulates all materials, labor, permitting, and their skill. Not all builders can finish project details with the same level of skill and the price often reflects their expertise. Hiring a GC with the competiency to manage all aspects of your project and relay the right information to you is a skill learned with time. A well-run construction project will save you years of stress, repairs, and uncertainty.

How to choose a general contractor by negotiated bid?

When choosing a general contractor through a negotiated bid, focus on clear communication and transparency. Discuss project details thoroughly, including costs, timelines, and expectations. Ensure there is a written contract outlining these details before starting the project. Evaluate the contractor’s reputation, experience, and references.

How to choose a general contractor?

To select a general contractor, start by gathering recommendations from friends, family, or online reviews. Check their licensing, insurance, and experience in similar projects. Obtain detailed written estimates, compare them, and ask about their project management approach. Check references and past work to ensure they have a proven track record of successful projects. Ultimately, choose a contractor who aligns with your needs, communicates effectively, and has a positive reputation.