One big challenge many people encounter when working in a new area or embarking on a new large project is finding the right people to do the job and do it right. We have extensive experience doing significant projects with different vendors/contractors. So, we will discuss some best practices for finding the best contractors here at RidgeLine.
Trusted Referral
The number one way we found quality vendors to work with was through independent referrals from people we know and trust. We would just say make sure the referral isn’t a close relative or friend but someone who has professionally worked with them before and hopefully for years. I mean, this goes without saying, but get details from the person about their experience with them. Did they do the job on time, on budget, with good quality work, and were very communicative the whole time.
Reviews and Visiting the Jobsite
Next, we like to scour the internet for reviews on the contractor’s business. Suppose there are any negative reviews, ask the contractor directly about them. Then, get a list of active job sites from them and try randomly visiting one. This could tell a lot about the general cleanliness of the job site. Are the guys just sitting around and not doing much? We try to engage with workers to understand their motivation and know-how. Also, walking the site together with the contractor could be informative if they seem knowledgeable. This is will be the most telling part of the vetting process.
Get At least 3 Bids
At least when you first work in the area or bidding on a new kind of job, we always recommend getting three bids. This will give you a good idea of what fair pricing is. Also, contractors bid out jobs so differently. We have had some charge a fee on top of cost, just charge labor, and you buy materials, or just an all-inclusive bid where their profit is built in. We are always wary of the cheapest bid. We would rather have more middle-road pricing but have more confidence that the job will be done right, on time, and budget. If there are issues that make them have to charge more, they are very communicative about it, so it’s not a surprise on a bill later. It is also possible that you may not like any of these bids and may need to get more. With at least 3 bids, you should know the proper scope of work and where pricing should land.
Smaller Job
We like giving new contractors smaller jobs at first.
This way, we can see the quality of the work and how it performs before we commit to a much larger job. If they are not adequate, then there is less for them to mess up. We also try never to give more than a 10% deposit upfront. Also, make sure not to pay for different stages of construction until after the work is complete and you have proof of such.
Eventually, you will be at a point where you have a trusted group of contractors/vendors who can get the job done how you like and on budget. You still need to keep them accountable continually. Make sure to check up on them regularly and meet and go over progress and budgets. Over time, some contractors get a little too comfortable, and their work slips. If they know you continually have an eye on a project, they will continue to perform as you like. It takes a lot of work to find good people. Historically, construction people are unreliable, and getting the job done can be challenging. When you find good people, hold onto them, make sure they are adequately compensated, and that they stick around. Lastly, treat them with the utmost respect and show your appreciation regularly. Without them, a lot will not move forward; ultimately, they are an integral part of your team.