Partnering with a professional, experienced contractor is important for the success of any home renovations project. This is why it is important to ask key questions when speaking with potential contractors that can assist you with making the best decision. If you are looking to have a concrete driveway, walkway, patio, or any other concrete project completed at your home, we have put together a list of 10 questions to ask any potential concrete contractor:
1. Tell me about your experience?
Asking for years in business or years experience, only provides you with a number. Asking a broader question allows for you to get a feel for the contractor’s experience and the types of jobs they have completed in the past.
2. Do you have a portfolio of past projects?
Any contractor that is proud of the work they complete will have pictures or a portfolio of previous projects completed available for you to review. These images will provide you a visual of the type of work you can expect at your home.
3. Can you provide references?
Most contractors do not have issues with sharing references for clients they have worked with in the past. You can also look up the contractors online reviews to get a feel for past client’s experiences.
4. How soon can you start working on my project?
Ask the concrete contractor what their schedule is like and how early they can work on your project. If you have an expected completion date in mind, ask the contractor if the date is feasible and the project can be completed on time.
5. What is the expected project duration?
Depending on the nature of your work and the contractor’s availability, the concrete contractor will give you an expected turnaround for your project. Usually, small projects like driveways can be completed in two days while more extensive projects can last over a week.
6. Do you require permits for my project?
Having informed the concrete contractor about your project, they should be able to tell if you need any permits before commencing the project.
7. Do you need to reinforce the concrete?
The contractor should let you know if your project’s expected weight needs to be supported or reinforced. They should provide adequate information on why you need or do not need to reinforce your concrete with rebar.
8. Do you outsource any of your projects?
You should know if the concrete contractor you initially spoke with will be in charge of your project or if they will outsource it to another crew or company.
9. Tell me about your on-site safety measures?
Be sure that the concrete contractor understands and follows safe work practices. Also, ask if the company is adequately bonded and insured to avoid additional expenses in case of any accidents.
10. Is everything we discussed outlined in the written agreement?
A written contract and warranty will save you from potential issues down the road, if any problems were to arise during or after the project is completed.
When speaking with a potential contractor about your upcoming project, incorporate these 10 questions along with any other questions you may have about your project or their business to get a better feel for if this concrete contractor is the right one to complete your project.
