How to Choose a Remodeling Contractor

Choosing a remodeling contractor for your home or office can be a difficult decision. A variety of resources are available to ensure that you choose a contractor who can perform the work that needs to be done within your specifications.

• Ask friends, family, neighbors and co-workers for recommendations of remodeling contractors they have used in the past for their home or office improvements.


• Call or review the potential contractors' websites to find out if the person has received the required state and local licenses, and if he or she is a member of any related professional organizations such as the National Association of Homebuilders, the National Kitchen & Bath Association or the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.


• Inquire with the Better Business Bureau if the contractor is listed and has any feedback on file.


• Ask the contractor for references of past jobs similar to the one you need done and contact them. Ask them if they were satisfied with the work done and if it was completed on time and on budget, and if there is anything they wish had been done differently. Ask to see the work done on their home or office as well to obtain a visual example of the contractor's work.


• Discuss down payments, terms of service and other details with the contractor, and ensure that a written contract is always part of the agreement before any work is done in your home or office.