HOW TO HIRE A KITCHEN REMODELING CONTRACTOR IN LOS ANGELES?

 

OK, it’s time to take that next step from dreaming about a new kitchen to making the project a reality. Have you been stalling on declaring “go time “because hiring a kitchen remodeling contractor in Los Angeles seems like a more extensive project than living through the renovation????

I know we have all heard many crazy stories about all the things that could go wrong if you don’t hire the right contractor.  Don’t stress.  I’m writing this blog today to make sure that doesn’t happen.  If you follow the guidelines and do your homework, you most likely will end up with a beautiful kitchen and a new friendship with your contractor.

The kitchen is the heart of your home. So, whether you are looking to update your floors and cabinets or build your ultimate kitchen dream, you need a top professional for this project.

HOW TO HIRE A LOS ANGELES KITCHEN REMODELING CONTRACTOR

It seems like a daunting task, but if you take the time to check qualifications, experience in kitchen remodeling, and references, you will be able to move forward with confidence.

DO I NEED A GENERAL CONTRACTOR OR KITCHEN REMODELING SPECIALIST?

A general contractor has experience with most aspects of home remodeling. A Kitchen Remodeling Contractor specializes in every part of kitchen remodeling, renovation, and additions.

Suppose your kitchen remodeling project is a new addition to the house that will include foundation work, exterior work, and kitchen interior. In that case, you might need to look for a general contractor with experience in all aspects of a renovation.  They should have significant kitchen remodeling experience.

Suppose you can find a contractor with a staff that includes the skillsets of electrical, plumbing, masonry, roofing, and the skills to complete the kitchen- flooring, tiling, custom counters, and cabinetry. In that case, they will have more control or the project’s timeline, quality, and costs.    Whether you hire a general contractor or a kitchen remodeling specialist, having the skillsets in-house is a plus to the project.

Kitchen remodeling specialists usually offer design services to help with the design aspects of your kitchen. This can save you from having to hire a separate kitchen designer.

CREDENTIAL

It is critical to ensure that you are hiring a licensed and insured contractor. Make sure they have a state license. That guarantees that they have undergone rigorous testing and have the required skills to complete the job professionally.

Ask the contractor for their license number and certificate of insurance (COI). Follow up to verify that they are in good standing. Reach out to your state’s licensing board to confirm their license is active and up to date. Contact the insurance policy carrier to verify that the coverage is current.

Active professional association memberships add another layer of legitimacy to the contractor’s resume. Most members of the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), or National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) will promote these affiliations.

HOW TO HIRE A LOS ANGELES KITCHEN REMODELING CONTRACTOR

Start your research for a local contractor online. Check out Facebook, Yelp, and even community websites.  Services like Angie’s List, Houzz, HomeAdvisor.  Remember, some of these are paid advertising or have paid for positive reviews. Do your research as well.

Ask your realtor, neighbors, friends, family, and coworkers for referrals. See if they have someone that they are thrilled to recommend. Look for people in your community who recently have done a kitchen remodel and ask their opinion.

Remember to ask what made it a positive experience, how the contractor handled problems, and whether they would use the same contractor again?

Don’t forget to check the company’s ratings on the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Narrow your pool of candidates to the top three.

Prioritize your shortlist and reach out starting with your top candidate. Provide an overview of the project and any added services you’ll need, like architecture or design. Request their license and insurance credentials so that you can verify them before an in-home appointment.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR POTENTIAL LOS ANGELES KITCHEN REMODELING CONTRACTOR

• Are you licensed and insured?
• Have you or your employees been certified in remodeling or had special training or education.
• Who will be working on the project? Are they employees or subcontractors?
• Do you have references from past projects that I can talk to?
• How are the payment terms structured?
• Do you provide guaranteed pricing or estimate?
• How much should we put aside for contingency planning?

“One of the most important things to look for when shopping for a  kitchen design contractor  and designer  is somebody who listens  well and understands your porject needs.

Chemistry also weighs heavily into the selection of a contractor. You have to be able to trust the person you’re working with.

CHECK REFERENCES.

Once a rapport has been established, ask to see some of the contractor’s projects. If they meet with approval, request references, and then call to verify them.

GET IT IN WRITING.

After zeroing in on one contractor who seems right for the job, please look at the documents they have prepared for you. Do they look professional? Scrutinize the contract. Does it seem fair and balanced? Ensure that the written agreement includes a bid price and payment schedule, the scope of work, and a  site plan. There needs to be a list of crucial construction tasks, a change-order clause, a written procedural list for close-out. Also, look for an express limited warranty, a clause about dispute resolution, and a waiver of lien, which would prevent subcontractors and suppliers from putting a lien on a house should their invoices go unpaid by the contractor.

GO TIME –   IF YOU ARE SATISFIED WITH THE:

• The contracting process including the payment terms, contingency plans, and guarantees.
• All the credentials checked out, and the references were strong.
• Contractor and their team’s level of experience.
• The contractor understands your vision, expectations, and you feel confident that you are on the same page to work together.

Then it’s Go Time. Great job!!! You chose your Los Angeles kitchen remodeling contractor like a pro.  Now it’s time to let the work begin and get ready for the fun stuff like shopping for your new appliances and fixtures.

When shopping for your Los Angeles kitchen remodeling contractor make reach out to Structura Remodeling company.  The top Kitchen Remodeling company in Los Angeles with more than sixteen years of experience.

Their Kitchen Design Team will meet with you for a Free In-Home Estimate to assess your project and collaborate with you on all aspects of the design. When your 3-D Computer Design is complete, you will be able to see exactly how your kitchen will turn out.

Whether you want a complete remodel including new flooring, electrical, plumbing, windows, and the best professional cookstove on the market, or are looking to refresh and modernize your kitchen, call Structura Kitchen Remodeling and design.  We deliver top-quality artistry on time and within budget—no Hidden Surprises.