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Speed Date Your Contractor

Just as your spouse is a huge part of your daily life, contractors are a huge part of your renovation. It helps to think of them in the same way, since you’re going to have to work together, trust them, and talk about finances together.

You wouldn’t marry someone you’ve never spoken to before, would you? No. Then why would you choose a contractor without really getting to know them, including their work ethic, communication style, process, and more?  You tend to date someone for years before you marry them, but renovations happen much more rapidly. That’s why you should “speed date” your contractor! Sound fun? Well, it kind of is!

Here are 5 of things to do when you speed date your contractor (no dinner required):

1.  Ask “why,” “what,” and “how” questions instead of “yes” or “no” questions. These type of questions force your contractor to respond with specific examples that will give you insight into their behavior and explain how they’ve handled tricky situations.

2.  Look for evidence of technical expertise with YOUR type of project. If this contractor has never worked on renovating a kitchen before, they’re not the best fit for your kitchen remodel. The same is true for other areas of your home.

3. Does the contractor communicate in a way you understand? If both you and your spouse or business partner are present, are they explaining things clearly to both of you? Pay close attention to tone, and if they try to rush the conversation or get defensive, condescending, or angry.

4. How responsive was this contractor to your request for a speed date? How did they or their office handle your request? Was scheduling and getting ahold of someone easy? How long did it take them to respond to your request?

5. Ask for a list of previous and current clients who went through and are going through a remodel similar to yours that you can call to speak with. If they don’t give you a list, they don’t get your business. Bonus points if those references will let you come see the finished product!

If you’re unsatisfied with a contractor’s answers to your questions, ask them to clarify. Also realize that you’re working with another human being whose communication style may differ from yours. So, if they cannot adjust how they’re explaining something to you, find another contractor to interview. Effective communication is too important to overlook.

Finding the right contractor to work on your home can change the entire dynamic of a project, and how you ultimately feel about the results. It’s well worth the time to follow these steps to find the right remodel partner for you and your project!