This is a part of our job that I am sure many more experienced Stagers and Redesigners are used to but it has been a real learning experience for me being new to the business. There are so many things to consider when you are handling the details of a job for a client when specialized work is needed. As you handle all these details for your client, it makes their Staging/Redesign experience way less stressfull and this should definitely be one of your goals as a Professional. I thought I would share some tips on things to look out for when you are hiring a Contractor. If you are not fortunate enough to have a working relationship with a Contractor you trust, the screening process can be daunting.
First and foremost never hire anyone who does not have insurance and workers comp coverage. This is a biggy. I took it for granted that a Painter who I have worked with several times had coverage but found he had none. Many Contractors do not carry the necessary insurance to cover their workers should they become injured on the job.
What this means is you or your client could possibly become liable should someone become injured while working on the property. It's a chance you don't want to take. This information can be checked very easily by looking up the contractor's license number through your state's Contractors State License Board. When getting bids this is an important question to ask, cheaper may be cheaper for a reason not just quality of work. I recommend getting at least 3 bids.
To find a good contractor I like to go up to homes where I see work being done and talk directly to homeowners. It's a great way to source a Contractor if you do not know one for the particular kind of work you need. Ask friends who have had home improvements or renovations done. Those Contractors who are very visible advertising wise may not necessarily be the best. I am always looking subconciously when I am out and about, it is a compulsive habit! On exterior job sites, I always note what is laying around, what does the job site look like? Your client won't want trash around and won't appreciate tripping over tools and such in non work areas. Who you hire reflects on your own business.
Some Contractors can be pretty unreliable when it comes to showing up on time and working a full day. I recommend laying out strict but reasonable expectations up front and tie full payment to agreements to those expectations in writing. Never allow your client to pay more than 10% to 20% up front. If it is a big project, additional "draws" can be made as each portion of work is complete. Most reputable contractors are ok with this and it is an insentive for them to complete the work in a timely manner.
As a Stager/Redesigner I can say when you find a Contractor who meets these requirements and does quality work YOU HAVE STRUCK GOLD!
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