One of the most important decisions you will make when building or renovating is hiring the right contractor for the job. And with this in mind, one step that is often overlooked in this process, which should actually be high on the priority list is, checking references.

Reference checks should be done before you make your final decision by asking past clients questions such as:

Did the contractor deliver what was promised?

Was the work was done correctly, on time and as indicated in the contract? How were changes or challenges handled, once the project began?

Were the contractors and site organized and professional throughout the project?

Did the work crews arrive on time and keep the project and the area around the project organized? As there are many trades onsite at different times it is important to work with a company that is organized to ensure the project remains on schedule.

How did the contractor communicate with the client?

Was the contractor easily accessible when the client had any questions?

If they were to do the job again, would they hire the same contractor?This is an important question to ask and if they say no, it is a pretty good indication the contractor may not have met all of the client’s needs. If this is the case, you will want to check several of the references to see if there were any problems with other clients.

When it comes to hiring your contractor, if they are unable to provide you with references of past projects, this may be an indication that they were not able to satisfy past clients.