How to Hire a Licensed Builder

licensed builder

There are horror stories abound about people hiring builders, and it turns into a mess. Almost every builder will tell you they’re licensed or certified, and most of the time, they are, barely.

Many of them have just enough to pass regulations that aren’t always that tough. Some states don’t even have regulations for builders.

Whether you’re building your dream home, remodeling, or need commercial property built, you don’t want to hire a general contractor that won’t come through.

You need to take some steps to hire a licensed builder that will stand by their word and deliver top-notch work. Keep reading if you want to learn how.

Research, Research, Research

It can’t be stressed enough. Do your research. And when you’re done, do some more. Read everything you can online about contractors in your area and get key licensed builder tips.

Check reviews, Facebook pages, Twitter, Instagram, Yelp, anywhere you can think to gather information about potential hires.

Get Referrals

Ask friends and family if they know of anyone suitable. Ask parents on your kid’s soccer team. Join local discussion groups centered around building, contracting, or remodeling.

If you have a personal lawyer, ask them. They’ve likely come across several, although not good ones. But at least you’ll know who to avoid.

When You Get the Quote

When the general contractor does come out to give you a quote, there are some questions you need to ask.

First and foremost, ask if they’re licensed. If they say yes, ask for their license number. When you get that, you can verify it with your state board.

You can also find out from the board if the state has disciplined the builder. You can also see if their license is current.

Make sure they’re insured. They need the correct requirements for the size of the build, both property damage and liability.

Find out how long they’ve been in business. Ask the builder for references too. Ensure they have a local phone number and a local address, not a PO box.

Also, go to your state’s court system website to check if they have a history in court.

Why A Licensed Builder?

Hiring a licensed builder should mean they’re qualified to do the job. Plus, they have to take classes every year to keep their certification.

If your state has a Contract Recovery Fund, you’ll be covered by that when you hire a licensed builder.

Red Flags

There are some red flags you need to be aware of.

Suppose a general contractor offers to do a job for a significantly lower price than others, or they have an unmarked car or truck?

If they refuse to put things in writing or ask you to sign an authorization or estimate before you agree to hire them, that’s no good.

Suppose they’re incredibly pushy or try to offer you all kinds of deals/discounts. Lastly, if they ask to be paid in full before the job starts, forget it.

If you see one or two of these red flags, it’s probably a good idea to find someone else.

A Trusted Licensed Builder

Yes, there are tons of horror stories out there about contractors and their misdoings.

However, if you use this checklist, you’ll be able to find a licensed builder who will come through for you. They’ll deliver the job you want without any issues.

Contact us to get started today.