Finding a masonry contractor may take a little work but if you want the best for your project, it’s really worth the additional effort. Here are a few tips that will help you hire the best masonry contractor for the job.
- Be clear on the type of work you want to be done. A masonry contractor may specialize in a specific type of work. If you want a concrete countertop, you don’t want to hire someone that specializes in poured foundations.
- Take some time to search. Ask friends and family for recommendations. Word of mouth is often the best method for finding any good contractor. Check the local yellow pages and online contractor directories. Typing “masonry contractor” and your city in any search engine will bring up a list of contractors in your area.
- Don’t hire the first contractor you talk to. Set up appointments with at least three to look over your project and give you a bid for the job. Ask each contractor for a written quote that itemizes the cost of labor and materials.
- Ask for references and follow up by contacting them. Were the customers satisfied with the work and was the job completed on schedule? Be aware that it is not in the best interest of any contractor to include references for dissatisfied customers, so you may need to do a little additional work.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed. It’s not uncommon for any business with a large number of customers to have a few complaints. It shouldn’t stop you from considering the contractor for the job. What is important is the nature of the complaint and if it was taken care of to the customer’s satisfaction.
- Ask for proof of licensing. A masonry contractor, or any contractor for that matter, needs to be licensed by the state in which they work. It provides some degree of assurance that the contractor is knowledgeable in their trade. It is not only illegal for a contractor to work without a license but the consumer also has no protection under state law against shoddy workmanship.
- Make certain that the contractor is insured. This includes general liability and workers’ compensation to cover employees in case of injury. Obtain the name of the insurance carrier so you can verify that the policy is adequate and in effect.
- Check to see if the masonry contractor you consider hiring is bonded. A bond provides the customer financial protection should the contractor fail to complete the job. It also protects against claims for unpaid subcontractors or supplies.
- Don’t choose a masonry contractor by price alone. It may be tempting to accept the lowest bid for your job but the lowest bid may not always be the best option. An unusually low bid may be a sign that a contractor is cutting corners on materials or quality labor. Factor in all the other necessary criteria before accepting any bid.
- Get it in writing. Once you’ve found a masonry contractor that you feel is right for your project, make certain the details are spelled out in a contract. This should include everything that was in the original bid such as itemized cost of materials and labor as well as the completion date and payment options.