Ensuring Quality Work from Contractors While Managing Your Busy Schedule

Introduction

Dealing with contractors while managing a busy work schedule can be a bit of a challenge. You need to ensure the work is done right, but finding the right contractor and staying on top of progress can be demanding. In this article, we explore strategies to manage contractor relations effectively, ensuring that the work is completed to the highest standards, despite your limited involvement.

Getting References

One of the first steps in hiring a contractor is to gather references. However, it's crucial to verify these references with the proper authority. Local government building departments, such as your county's building code office, can provide you with a list of past contractors with active permits. This allows you to see a diverse range of references rather than just those provided by the contractor itself.

Draw from a larger pool of references by asking the building department for contact information for contractors who have recently completed projects of similar scale. This approach adds a layer of objectivity, as the references won't be chosen solely by the contractor to impress you.

Building a Trustworthy Relationship

While reference checks are important, they can be time-consuming. Trust is another key factor in working with contractors. Choose a contractor you believe in and can trust.

Consulting with trusted friends or neighbors who have worked with local contractors can provide you with valuable insights into their reputed work. Additionally, look for contractors who have a good reputation and a history of completing projects on time and to standards you can trust.

Independent Quality Assurance

Even with trust, it's wise to have an additional layer of quality assurance. This is where the role of independent inspectors comes into play. These professionals are often required to sign off on various stages of a project to ensure compliance with local building codes and safety standards.

Don't just rely on a pass-fail rating from the contractor. Reach out to the legion of inspectors who have reviewed the project. They can provide a more detailed assessment, helping you understand the progress and quality of the work being done. This is especially important for major projects that involve several key milestones.

Conclusion

Managing contractors while juggling a busy schedule requires a balanced approach. By obtaining a range of references, building a trusting relationship, and incorporating independent quality assurance through inspections, you can ensure that the work done by contractors meets your expectations. These strategies will help you maintain control and confidence in the work being performed, even when you can't be on the site all the time.