8 Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Starting a Project

#1. Trying to manage your own project

– Trying to learn an entirely new trade or profession on your first go around is like operating on yourself without a medical degree.

#2. Purchasing your own materials.

– This often leads to missing parts, broken pieces, returns, and a whole lot of extra time and aggravation.

Many reputable builders purchase their materials from local, reliable, and experienced suppliers.

 #3. Getting bids that do not include the same scope of work and material

– Some less reputable types in the industry underbid jobs by not including everything to complete the job or using low grade materials.

#4. Not checking references.

– This is an opportunity to talk to homeowners that have worked with the contractor. Especially useful if you will be working with the contractor on a large scale project and will be communicating with them for months throughout the project.

#5. Not checking that your contractor has the proper liability and workers compensation insurance coverage.

– Accidents happen. Protect yourself and your home by working with a contactor that has proper coverage. We also verify subcontractors have insurance coverage as well.

#6. Selecting a contractor solely based on cost.

– There is often a reason a contractor comes in lower than others, especially if the cost is significantly lower. Be wary of this. Many times it is related to a contractor not knowing what a projects is going to cost or underbidding the job then whamming the homeowner with a big bill at the end.

#7. Hiring a contractor who isn’t experienced with the type of project you’re planning.

– This can be a dangerous route to take. There is a big difference between a 1-2 man show that shows up when they feel like vs an established general contractor that has managed a job of your size.

#8. Hiring your own subcontractor.

– Sometimes a homeowner has a soft spot for a subcontractor they have worked with in the past. That subcontractor may have done a great job but may not be the best fit for the new project. Part of a general contractor’s job is to hire subcontractors that are experienced for the job at hand, are reliable, provide a good quality product and fit into the projects timeline.