Red Flags to Watch Out for When Choosing a Home Contractor

Picking professionals that you trust to come into your home can be an extremely difficult process. You need someone that is going to take the investment you’re making as seriously as you do. Large home renovations cost thousands of dollars and the company you work with should reflect that. Always listen to neighbor recommendations, read reviews, and note all warning signs before you choose any contractor. Here are some contractor red flags to watch out for:

• Poor communication. A short delay in responses, especially during busy seasons, isn’t a huge cause for concern. Extended delays with no communication whatsoever are when you should have conversation to ensure that they have the time and availability to take on your project. While it’s not abnormal for contractors to have multiple projects happening at once, some may take on more than they can handle. Express your concerns if you feel this is happening.
• Missing deadlines. During the planning process and throughout the project, you and your contractor will set deadlines for things to be completed. While complications can arise causing delays, recurring delays are a major redflag. When renovating your home your whole life is on hold. Consistent missed deadlines only drag that on longer. If deadlines are being missed regularly, you need to chat with your contractor and stay on top of communication. 
• Poor reviews. Visit several review websites and read both good and bad reviews. Keep in mind that most people are more likely to leave a negative review than a positive. 
• Heavy pressure. You should never feel pressured to do anything when it comes to your renovation. This is a company’s way of ensuring they get a profit quickly. You may even feel pressured to remove an element from your plan. If this is the case, the company may not have the skill set or ability to achieve that desire but doesn’t want to admit it. 
• Low estimates. This isn’t a concern on its own, but when paired with poor reviews it could be a warning sign. Low estimates could mean a few things including a new company, slow season, lack of experience, or poor outcomes. Just remember not to only pick a contractor because they offered the lowest price. 
• No licenses or insurance. Currently in Wisconsin, general contractors do not need state licensing, however, you should ask for business licenses and permits to verify it is a real company. Anyone claiming to work on the side or forgoing permits isn’t a professional and should not be trusted. 
• Brief portfolio. A reliable and experienced contractor will be proud to show off their work given any opportunity. If you ask for a portfolio and only get a few pictures or they’re unable to provide one at all, this is a huge red flag! They may be a newer company, but still proceed with caution.
• Asking for full cost upfront. Having a payment schedule or a down payment is normal, but if a contractor asks for the full payment up front it is an immediate red flag. We would recommend finding someone new!

J Kruzan Construction and Remodeling cares about your investment. We are here for you every step of the way so you can trust you’re getting honest and quality work! If you’re ready to start a home renovation in SE Wisconsin with a construction company you can rely on, contract J Kruzan Construction and Remodeling today!