A home renovation is a huge project to fund and manage. You need to find a reliable company – whether you’re renovating an entire house or one room. Your contractor can help you overcome challenges and achieve the property of your dreams. Renovations never go exactly to plan. You need to be prepared for delays and added costs here and there.

Choosing the wrong contractor could have catastrophic effects on your property and stress levels. The Gas Safe Register found that one in five people have been let down by a tradesperson. So, you need to thoroughly research local contractors and choose the best one for your project.

Here are a few things to consider when finding a contractor for your home project.

Find a well-established company

Look out for contractors who have been around for a while and have a good reputation in your local area. Contractors are often referred to by word of mouth. Ask your friends and family for recommendations and research the contractors online. There may be a few reviews online that could either persuade or dissuade you from hiring them.

You need a contractor with connections to sub-contractors, like plumbers and electricians. You could ask them to install your fitted wardrobes, kitchen and bathroom appliances once they have built the property. It’s much easier to work with one team for the whole project.

Find independent testimonials

Always look for independent references and testimonials from a company’s previous clients. You could ask to speak to one of their clients and ask them a few questions about working with the company. A quick site visit and phone call will give you a good idea of the contractor’s work. You should also check resolution history, credit checks and insurance documents. Look out for any red flags, like liquated companies, and double-check their credentials. You can’t afford to skip any steps when hiring a contractor.

Get a written contract

Once you have found a contractor, you need to get a written contract drawn up to prevent miscommunication. Outline the terms of the contract clearly and ask the company to sign it. A contract offers both of you protection – in case anything goes drastically wrong later down the line.

The payment terms should be outlined in this contract as well – along with any added fees. Some contractors may offer cash and VAT free deals that can’t be tracked if things go wrong. Do not agree to a VAT-free agreement, and always seek professional advice when needed.

Agree on a payment schedule

Do not pay in full before the project is finished. The contractor could take your money and not complete the property. Agree to pay instalments over several months so you can monitor how much work has been done.

Do your research so you can find the best contractor in your area.