Make sure you have a list of good questions to ask when interviewing builders to build your house or major addition.
Do you remember hearing the old adage, “There are no stupid questions” when you were growing up? Well, for those building a house should, the new adage should be, “There are no stupid questions AND no stupid follow up questions.” When interviewing builders, keep asking questions. This is the simple formula for getting the answers needed to make an informed decision.
Builder Brad Chaney of B. Chaney Improvements has conducted many meetings with potential clients over the decades. He’s also answered many questions about home design, remodeling, permits, financing, move-in dates, final walkthroughs, etc.…
Here are some questions he recommends asking when interviewing builders.
“Are you licensed and insured in the state where I want to build?” A reputable contractor should be able to offer documents and the statements in those documents should be easily verifiable through the local builders association and state licensing agency.
“Who will supervise the building and do you use subcontractors?” While subcontractors are often hired and supervised by the builder, it is almost always better to have a foreman and most of the labor force directly on the builder’s payroll.
“May I see some of your recently finished projects and one that is in progress?” A quality builder should be proud to show off these projects and put you in touch with former clients. If you can talk to someone currently under contract, you can ask them about the professionalism (workers showing up when expected and communication with the builder/foreman) of the builder in question.
“Can you describe your building process for me between the initial meeting and the closing with the bank?” This may be the ultimate test for judging a contractor. While not every little detail will be in this answer, the builder should have a solid agenda as to how the workflow will go and how you – the homeowner – will be kept connected to the project throughout each phase.
For more great questions, search “Questions for interviewing builders,” on most search engines. It won’t take long to compile a list.
A Testimonial
“He’s a very trustworthy guy,” said Lisa, who hired Brad for a major renovation of her Mt. Pleasant home. “He had my best interest in mind the entire time he was working. I felt comfortable with the key to my home in his hands.”
And in the words of another home building client, “You have to do interviews to get a feel for that level of trust that you need.”
It was that kind of trust in Brad and his crew that gave Lisa a great building experience with B. Chaney Improvements.
Contact Us
If you have some questions that you would like answered about building new home, contact the B. Chaney Improvements Charleston, SC office by clicking here or calling (843) 388-4334.