Before you start a custom home building or remodeling project it is important that you have all the information you need about your general contractor. There are several questions you need to ask so that there won’t be any major surprises once you are well into the project. Alair Homes Rosedale Toronto is an experienced general contracting company that offers good advice to homeowners on their website. Here are 10 of the top questions you should ask your contractor.

1. Is your company licensed in general construction and/or home building in my state?

Most states require contractors to be licensed to do construction. They won’t be able to get a permit for the project without a license. Don’t let yourself get talked into filing for a permit in your name. This may be a red flag that the contractor isn’t licensed.

2. Are you insured?

You want to make sure your contractor carries adequate General Liability Insurance. He or she also needs to have Workers Compensation for all employees. You can ask for a binder showing proof of insurance.

3. Do you have references that I can check?

It is recommended that you ask for 3 references. If a contractor cannot come up with references, it is not a good sign. Check out at least 1 of those references.

4. What subcontractors will be working on my home?

A general contractor is only good if he or she has good subcontractors who are also licensed and insured. Much of the work on a home is performed by specialty sub-trades.

5. When will you start and when do you anticipate finishing?

Get a schedule in writing. Project delays are costly and frustrating.

6. How will you protect my property and belongings, my neighbors’ properties, and the construction materials?

Protection of all of the above is crucial. You want your property kept safe, secure, and clear of debris. Construction materials need to be stored properly so that they are not compromised by being exposed to the elements.

7. How do we handle changes?

Unforeseen conditions are quite common, resulting in additional costs. Have a plan in place for how to handle change orders in terms of labor and material costs. Don’t allow changes without your prior approval.

8. Who pays for temporary facilities and utilities?

Agree upfront about temporary sanitary toilets and who will be paying for any storage containers and temporary utility costs.

9. What hours will your crews be working?

Get a daily work schedule that includes when a supervisor will be onsite. Agree on what time of day workers will start and finish, and if they will be permitted to work on weekends. Most cities and towns have noise ordinances in place that restrict hours of construction. You don’t want to end up with fines for working outside of allowable hours.

10. How can I reach you?

You need to be able to communicate with your contractor through phone, texts, and emails. Ask that your contractor be available, within reason, when you need to reach him or her. It is a good idea to set up a weekly meeting time when all parties convene at the job site or via webcam.

Before you start your project make sure you have a well executed and mutually agreed upon contract that spells out construction means and methods, schedule, costs, change order procedures, insurance requirements, and key personnel who will be on the job site to oversee the work. Having all of this in place should help the process to run smoothly.