When it comes to hiring a general contractor in Toronto, there are a few key things to consider to ensure that you are getting the best possible service. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the things you should be looking for when choosing a general contractor in Toronto, including their experience, reputation, and qualifications.
1. License
When looking for general contractors Toronto, it is important to find one that is licensed. This means that the contractor has met the state-mandated qualifications for contractors. This is also important if you are looking to sell your house in the future; work done by an unlicensed contractor is not usually recognized in real estate transactions.
2. General Liability and Workers Comp Insurance
Insurance is a major factor when it comes to choosing general contractors Toronto. Your contractor’s insurance policy protects you as the homeowner from incurring responsibility for an injury sustained on your property.
3. Experience
Experience is important when it comes to choosing general contractors Toronto because you want to make sure that they are able to provide you with quality workmanship. You can ask your contractor questions like how long they have been in business, how many projects they do in a month, and if they have any references for their work.
4. References and a Positive Reputation
References and a positive online reputation is a good indication that the company has done significant work and that its customers are happy with their services. Beware of a “too perfect” looking reputation, though. A 100% satisfaction rate could be a red flag indicating that the reviews posted are not from actual customers.
5. Steady and Trained Staff and Crew
Never be afraid to ask how long a company has been in business or how long an individual has worked for the company. Lengthy tenure can show that the company has a good reputation not only with customers but within the company as well. Training is also important, and you can ask questions like what licenses or special training the company or individual has received.
6. Turnaround Time
Once you speak with a company, turnaround time is also a good indicator of what kind of company you are speaking with. If the turnaround time is too short, it may indicate that the company is sacrificing quality for speed. If the estimated length of completion is wildly different from other contractors, there could be an issue. During busy seasons, the turnaround time could be between 3-4 weeks for a standard asphalt roof replacement or even longer if a severe weather event has occurred.
7. Pricing
Pricing is important to look for, and not for the reason you might be thinking. When searching for general contractors in toronto, you do not want general contractors in toronto that have the highest or the lowest pricing. Contractors should be competitive with pricing, but if the pricing seems too good to be true, it usually is. You also want to make sure you are comparing “apples to apples” when it comes to pricing. Different manufacturers or types of shingles can raise or lower costs.
8. Material Suppliers
A good way to check in with general contractors in toronto would be to check with the material suppliers. If the company has a good reputation with the people they work most closely with and often (suppliers), then it is a good indication that it will be a good company to work with.
9. Communication
From the beginning of contacting your contractor, you want to make sure that they are providing good communication. Did the office get back to you in a timely manner? They answer all of your questions? Did they confirm the appointment? Did your consultant answer all of your questions? If the answer is “no” to several of these questions. it may be a good indicator that the company will not be able to have open communication with you during the process of your job.
10. Contract
Your contract will show a lot about your company. It will include most of the items listed above. It should show you their license number, answer questions about materials used and timelines. If you have a vague or hard-to-understand contract, it might indicate that there are hidden fees or procedures.
When it comes to finding general contractors toronto. No two projects are the same because no two people are the same. Trust is a major factor when it comes to finding the right contractor and like dating, it is important to find someone you are comfortable with. Never be afraid to ask as many questions as you might need to. At Meadowlands Group Inc, we have experienced general contractors with experience, a good reputation. And the necessary qualifications, as well as good communication and a fair cost. With the right contractor, your construction project will be completed to a high standard and to your satisfaction.