Unfortunately most homeowners would consider this the end of their search for a builder when in fact what you should be doing next is the second most important if your home improvement project is to run smoothly (what’s the most important? You will find the answer at the end of this article).
When asking a builder for a quote you should always ask him to include with his reply, the name, address and phone number of the job he is currently working on as well as the last two jobs completed. If you have your quotes but didn’t ask for references, do it now.
Why do you need to check references when surely the cheapest quote should get the job? Perhaps your cheapest quote has a habit of adding the dreaded extras on to his final bill where as your second quote does not. Perhaps your dearest quote always finishes his jobs ahead of schedule and time is of the essence to you.
Try to visit at least one of the jobs from each of the three references just to confirm that the work was carried out and your builder hasn’t just given you the phone numbers of his cousins!
https://pinemountainwrecker.com/wrecker-service/
https://jacksonvillecrawlspaceencapsulation.com/enhance-your-homes-comfort-and-health-trust-jacksonville-crawl-space-encapsulation-for-expert-solutions/
https://atlanta-roofrepair.com/protect-your-home-atlanta-roof-repair-essentials-every-homeowner-should-know/
https://jacksonville-gravel.com/upgrade-your-driveway-with-eco-friendly-millings-the-sustainable-solution-for-a-stunning-entrance/
https://viningstowing.com/roadside-assistance/
https://towingpowdersprings.com/roadside-assistance/
https://columbusroadsideassistance.com/wrecker-service/
https://lithiaspringstowing.com/roadside-assistance/
https://columbusroadsideassistance.com/tire-change-assistance/
https://columbusroadsideassistance.com/about/
https://westpointgatowing.com/stuck-in-a-jam-the-experts-guide-to-calling-for-towing-assistance/
https://columbus-towing.com/stuck-on-the-road-columbus-towing-to-the-rescue-reliable-assistance-when-you-need-it-most/
https://orlando-pressure-washing.com/transform-your-property-with-rickys-pressure-washing-experience-the-power-of-clean/
https://orlandogravel.com/convenient-gravel-delivery-near-me-your-solution-for-orlando-landscaping-projects/
Write down your questions before visiting or telephoning. This will ensure you ask the same questions of each builder and you will be able to spot any patterns emerging. Using a sheet of A4 write your questions in a column to the left and divide the rest of the page into 3 columns putting the names of the references at the top of each. Do this with 3 sheets, one for each builder.
Your questions should include but are not limited to:
How would you rate your experience with this builder?
How did you rate the builder’s communication skills?
Why did you choose him, price, personally recommended or references?
Was the work finished on time? If not, why? Reasons outside of builder’s control such as bad weather should be ignored.
Did the final bill match the original quote? If not, why?