How To Find The Right Contractor

In this article I talk about some of the steps you should go through when choosing a professional to work on your project.

I’ve compiled a categorized directory of over 200 contractors, tradesmen and other professionals to make finding the right help a little easier. Most of these listings cover the greater Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia, but some go as far west as Yarmouth. The directory is very easy to navigate and has over 50 categories, to name a few: Asbestos, Electrician, Plumber, Arborist, Painter, Handyman, Mason, WETT technician, Locksmith, Heat pumps, Roofer, Radon, Plaster, etc …

When the time comes to find a contractor or tradesman or other professional for your project an important decision has to be made; who? In most neighbourhoods there are lots to choose from but the good ones are hard to get because they are in demand. For the remainder of this article I will just use the word Handyman as a blanket label to cover these professionals.

Ask around and get recommendations

Ask people you trust – friends, family and neighbours. Word of mouth is pretty reliable – nobody is going to refer you a horrible Handyman (unless they have something to gain – like a person referring one of their poor workmanship Handyman friends simply because they have a relationship). Recommendations are a great starting point but you need to dig deeper once you have some names. Another great place to get some recommendations is your local hardware store – they know the contractors in the area and who comes in to buy good quality materials and performs quality work.

Make some phone calls

So, now you’ve got some names together. I recommend giving them each a quick call and asking them some questions, which should include the ones below. Also, for any larger projects it’s always a good idea to get at least three quotes.

• Ask for a list of previous clients. Maybe you know one of them or can get in touch with one to ask them if they were satisfied.
• Ask if they take on projects of your size.
• How many other projects will they be working on simultaneously?
• How many years of experience?
• Ask if you can see a sample of their work. Maybe they have a portfolio website or can allow you to come to a current project to take a look.

Time to meet up

Based on your phone conversations whittle down your list to three Handymen to meet in person. Have a good long chat with them to determine their character and get an estimate for the work. You should be able to get along well with a potential Handyman and they should be able to satisfactorily answer any questions you have. Go with your gut.

Create a good plan and get some bids

Now that you have three Handymen picked it’s time to make a good set of plans for your project. A knowledgeable Handyman will want to see your plans and also know how much you plan on spending. The best way to compare bids is to ask all bidders to break down their costs into materials, labour and other expenses. Typically, materials make up about 40% and a profit margin of 20% is normal.

Don’t take the lowest bidder

If there is a large gap between the lowest bidder and the others you should probably just throw it out. This Handyman is likely cutting corners or desperate for work.  Don’t buy your hammers at the Dollar Store; most often the cheapest option is not always the best choice.

Write this stuff down!

It is vital that you get a contract! It should detail every part of the project, including payment schedules, start and completion dates, materials used, permits and anything else of importance. A good contract helps keep everyone on the same page; it is not a sign of mistrust.

The final word …

Shop around until you’re happy. Plan early so that you have time and don’t have to ‘settle’ for a Handyman you’re unsure about. Get everything in writing. And remember that once the project has started and you want changes made or previously concealed issues crop up – the price of the project is going up, up, up.