Homeowners who are faced with home renovation projects they can’t DIY may be curious about how a professional contractor can help. Before they decide to hire and work with a contractor, however, these homeowners are likely to do their research and want to find out more information on professionals in their area.
Homeowners who are considering using a contractor for a remodel may have some questions for prospective contractors before they hire them. As a general contractor, you must be prepared for these questions with helpful yet honest answers.
You should also have a few questions to ask remodeling clients before taking on the job. When you and your potential client have an open line of communication, you can more accurately determine if you’ll work well together. Review these questions and suggested answers so you’re ready for your next client meeting.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Proper licensure and insurance is the general sign of a responsible contractor. Homeowners want to make sure their project is protected and that a contractor can legally perform the work requested before they begin.
How to Answer
It’s important to keep your license up to date and make sure you adhere to local and state general contractor license requirements. Even if a business license isn’t required in your area, consider earning a license or certification anyway to show you take your work seriously.
Be prepared to provide proof of contractor insurance at client meetings. Your client is likely to ask about this coverage since it protects their project and home.
2. How Long Have You Owned Your Business?
Customers are likely to ask potential contractors how long they’ve been in business and how much experience they have. Each homeowner may have their reasons for asking this question.
Some may be more attracted to contractors who have completed countless projects and been in the business for years. However, other potential clients may be looking for a contractor who’s relatively new to home remodeling since they may benefit from competitive pricing and more time to dedicate to their job.
How to Answer
When this question is asked, you’ll need to provide an overview of your background, including when you became a remodeling contractor. Not only should you provide information on when you started your remodeling business, but you should also talk about any additional experience you may have obtained before you began. For example, if you worked for an electrician or construction company before opening your business, discuss those experiences as well.
3. Can I See Examples of Your Past Work?
Prospective customers may ask to see photos or videos of your past work so they can examine the quality of the finished product. Depending on the type of home renovation project in question, homeowners may also need to analyze a prospective contractor’s design style to ensure it aligns with their vision.
How to Answer
In 2019, 85% of consumers did online research before making a big purchase. Creating an online portfolio that includes videos and photos of your past work is an important component of drawing in potential clients and showing them what you can do.
Have a variety of samples of your work to show your versatility. When possible, provide potential clients with access to samples of your work in-person so they can examine the quality and style up close.
4. Can I Get an Estimate?
Customers are generally concerned with how much they’ll pay for a remodel and by how much the project will increase their home’s value. Therefore, they’re likely to ask you for an estimate on the project to figure out if they can afford it and whether it’s worth the investment.
How to Answer
It’s important to answer this question honestly and accurately to set realistic cost expectations upfront. Before you can price professional services, you must gather details to better understand the client’s vision of the finished product. To estimate and price the remodeling project accurately, consider the cost for:
- Fixtures and accessories;
- Painting;
- Labor;
- Materials;
- Flooring;
- Clean up.
Go through all steps in the bidding process and explain these steps to the customer. Taking your time ensures you can present a professional and precise estimate.
While clients may simply want you to provide them with quick, rough estimates for the work in question, it’s crucial to truly analyze project details before throwing out a number. When you provide an accurate estimate and can adhere to your bid, the customer is more likely to be satisfied with the project.
5. What Is the Expected Timeframe for This Project?
Customers are usually concerned with the timeline of the project, especially if they need to live elsewhere while work is going on or if they have another construction project lined up afterward.
How to Answer
To provide an honest and accurate time frame, consider all the components for project completion. Think about how you’ll plan and schedule business-related projects, such as tile delivery or electrician work. Also, add some extra time to your completion date to account for bad weather, employee illness, or other setbacks.
6. Who Will Be Working on This Project?
Homeowners with large projects may ask about subcontractors or other workers you could hire to assist with their remodel job. They may want to know if other professionals will be in their home and may ask about the other moving parts you must rely on to complete the project on time.
How to Answer
It’s important to provide this information to clients since they have the right to know who else will be involved with their home project. If there’s electrical work, a licensed electrician will likely need to do some work. If plumbing lines need to move, a licensed plumber may also be involved in the project. Be prepared to provide information on these professionals at your client meeting.
7. How Do You Deal with Unexpected Changes?
During a home remodel, any number of issues may arise. Customers may preemptively ask how you handle these challenges, which may include:
- Termite infestation;
- Faulty wiring;
- Roof leaks;
- Bad weather;
- Material backorders.
Homeowners who have completed remodel projects in the past know how common some of these challenges are, which may be the cause for their concern.
How to Answer
Address the homeowner’s concerns by reviewing what you usually do when dealing with unexpected problems during a project. You may mention that you’d call the homeowner right away to discuss their options and attempt to make room in the budget to solve these unforeseen problems.
Review your policy for making changes or adjustments to the project, which should include an amendment to the original contract. You should also have a solid policy for making repairs to the project once it’s complete, which you can review with the potential client.
As a contractor, prospective clients may have a variety of questions before hiring you. If you’re prepared with honest and thorough answers, you’re likely to impress the homeowner and get hired for the job.