Henderer Design + Build

Questions For A Potential Contractor

I’m thinking about building an addition to my house. When I interview contractors, what should I ask?

First of all, find a company that provides both design and construction. Most people don't ask enough questions when discussing a job, according to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. Here's a list to get you started picking a design + build remodeling contractor:

• How long have you been in business?
• Who is your designer and what are their qualifications?
• Who will be working on the project?
• Are they employees or subcontractors?
• Does your company carry workers' compensation and liability insurance?
• How many projects like mine have you completed?
• May I have a list of references?
• May I have a list of business referrals and suppliers?
• What percentage of your business is repeat or referral business?
• Are you a member of a national trade association?

Your remodeler will be a fixture of your daily life. It makes sense to make sure you feel comfortable asking this person questions and thoroughly discussing what you want and how the contractor will approach the project.

Do We Need To Get 3 Bids?

We want to remodel our home and have heard we should get three bids. What advice do you have about obtaining several bids?

It is important to interview contractors & designers for your project until you find someone you feel comfortable working with.

You should determine beforehand what criteria you will use to make your decision. Although budget is always important, there are other important factors to consider: Will the contractor return your phone calls in a timely matter? Will he or she start and finish your project within a reasonable amount of time? Do they work on a guaranteed fixed price? Who will be working on your project and will they be respectful of your property, kids, pets, and neighbors? The competitive bidding process puts the emphasis on price, not necessarily quality.

Above all, you should feel comfortable with the contractor you choose. You will, after all, be inviting them into your home. If you find someone you would like to work with, tell them. This will encourage commitment on both sides and move the process along smoothly and comfortably.

What Should I Know Before...

...I remodel or add on to my home?

Know what you want to accomplish. Do you need more living space? Would you like a new kitchen? A new master bedroom suite? More storage? Ask yourself what problem you hope to solve with the project.

Make two lists: A "must-have" and a "wish" list. The first list includes things you can't live without-new air-conditioning, a granite kitchen counter, a larger shower, etc. The second list is for features you can sacrifice to save money.

Collect magazine pictures of things you like, to help describe what you want.
Know your budget. Contractors are often asked to bid on designs way out of the homeowner's budget. Work with an experienced design + build contractor. Tell the contractor your budget, so they can help design a cost-effective project. A good contractor will not inflate their bid to match your budget.

What Is A Design + Build Construction Firm?

The difference between a traditional construction firm and a design + build firm is, simply put, the people building your project also design it.

A design + build firm oversees a project from the initial design and estimating phase through the final construction phase. There are many advantages to hiring a design + build firm:

• Communication is enhanced and streamlined since the customer works with one company.
• The budget can be considered early in the process, and the design can be steered toward the budget.
• Detailed drawings prepared in-house prior to construction minimize errors and make the construction process more efficient.
• Product selection is done prior to construction, thereby minimizing changes and cost increases.
• The design + build firm has the expertise to act as a guide for the entire construction process.

At Henderer Design + Build, our total involvement in your project ensures that your renovation or addition blends both the realities of your budget and the expanse of your dreams. The relationships we cultivate with our clients, from preliminary design through construction, ensure good communication and minimal problems.