Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Flooring Contractor

There are a lot of factors to consider before hiring a flooring contractor. Making sure you have adequate information to make the best decision will go a long way in ensuring the finished product is done right. Asking the right questions will help you find the perfect fit for your needs. We’ve compiled this list to help you:

• Is the contractor licensed for all of the services he will be performing?

You don’t want a licensed plumber installing your kitchen floors. This is why it is best practice to screen anyone who applies before you hire them. Make sure that all licenses are genuine, up to recognized standards, and cover the scope of work you are hiring them for.

• Does the contractor have worker’s compensation insurance?

If your contractor doesn’t have worker’s compensation insurance, you will be personally liable for any worker that is injured in the process of the installation. This means that you are required to pay their medical bills and could even be sued. It is the contractor’s responsibility to ensure the safety of their employees. Make sure they have the right insurance!

• Don’t ignore bad reviews and testimonials

Every contractor should be able to provide references. Request a list of testimonials from previous clients and contact them directly to check their validity. This also allows you to ask them further questions regarding the work. It is important to look for reviews from other sources as well, such as the Better Business Bureau. If complaints come up, it is important to take them seriously and address concerns with the contractor before hiring them.

• Ask for written contracts

Contracts spell out the scope of work, the method for installation, payment procedures, length of warranty, and approximate dates of completion. Not only does this give you a good idea of what to expect, it also protects you in case there are any disagreements.

• How do you handle clean-up and dust?

While this seems like the smallest part of your project, it is important to ask. Contractors have different levels of cleanliness as projects are completed, and it is good to know ahead of time to make sure you will have the best experience. Not all contractors contain the dust and mess generated, or even clean after installation, so you’ll need to figure that into your budget and timeline.

These questions are a good place to start to help guide you in choosing the right flooring contractor so that you get the best experience possible.