No matter what type of construction you are having completed, it is crucial to know if your general contractor is licensed and insured. Keep reading as we provide a checklist of things that you should be looking for when booking a general contractor.
First off, you may see that some contractors are insured and licensed. But what about someone who is bonded? Here are the differences between the three.
A bonded contractor means that they have a personal bond issued by an insurance company. Should the builder fail to finish the job to your stipulations, you may request the bonder for repayment.
An insured builder is vital should one need to safeguard their possessions while a job is being performed. Request an insurance certificate, and then call the insurer to double-check that the insurer is up-to-date and the policy will cover your project.
A general contractor who works at your residence should have a legitimate trade license that meets regional or state requirements. Builders who have a license have generally had to take specific courses and pass capability exams, as well as maintain an insurance policy.
- Look at the company’s website. It is important to see exactly what services they are offering. It would be a shame to do all the research only to find out that, yes, the company is fully insured and licensed, but it does not offer what you need to be done. When looking at the website, you will be able to see what they are experienced in, as well as what they excel in.
- See what the Better Business Bureau has to say about them. If any company wants to be a part of the BBB, they must first show proof of licensure and insurance. While checking out the BBB, you can see what others are saying about the general contractor.
- Ask to see the general contractor’s license if you need to stop by their physical location. If they hesitate to show you, this could be a red flag.
- Look at your state’s licensing board. You can verify online by going to your state’s official website and searching for the company’s name or licensure number. You could also try calling the state’s licensing department and asking them for assistance.
- Contact previous clients of the general contractor for referrals. Use this list to call the company’s previous clients so they can vouch for the work they performed. You will not only find out if the contractor was insured and licensed but also if the work performed was satisfactory to the individual having the work completed.
- Ask your local builder’s associate. They may have some information for you about which general contractors in the area are licensed and insured. Be sure to ask them if the license is not only valid but also up to date.
- Make sure the contractor also has insurance. Anyone near Tampa, or any other location for that matter, should have the proper insurance. You will want proof of insurance, so be sure to ask for a policy number and then confirm it with the insurance company.
- Check online reviews. This will allow you to see how exactly a general contractor performs not only with the building but also with customer service. Here, you will find out how trustworthy the company is.
Once you have hired your general contractor, make sure you retain copies of his or her paperwork, such as the contract, any contact you have had with them, and verification of payment. This will be beneficial in the event you run into an issue.
Are you looking for a general contractor who is licensed and near Tampa? Contact Hybrid Construction LLC today. With fast, responsive service, their team can provide you with high-quality services, such as new construction, bathroom or kitchen remodels, and much more.
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