How to Choose a Contractor Asking the Right Questions Our Process: Learn about Design/Build Remodeling and how we make the process work for you. Read more..... Our People: Meet the team that makes the process happen. Read more..... Sauerbeck: Complete remodel of a two story 1920's bungalow, including re-configuration of a tight second story layout, and replacement of AC, electrical, and plumbing systems. » view more DeSear: Interior and exterior remodel of one story 1950's island retreat. How to get maximum charm from a minimal budget. » view more Asking the Right Questions Can Make All The Difference PDF Printable Version Has the Contractor provided me a list of at least 20 of their past remodeling clients? Is the Contractor willing to show me some of their past and in-progress remodeling projects? Will the Contractor provide me a daily construction schedule with a start to finish date? Has the Contractor ever received any national recognition? Does the Contractor require background checks on all of their employees? Does the Contractor require pre-employment drug testing on all of their employees? Has the Contractor received any nationally recognized remodeling designations? Is the Contractor willing to start with only a small deposit and draw on a completed work basis? Has the Contractor provided me a Certificate of Insurance in the name of their business? To help avoid being responsible for any medical, disability and death claims, have I requested a copy of the Certificate of Insurance from the Contractor's insurance company to confirm Workers Compensation coverage? FACT: This could prove to be very important in the event of an injury. Has a Contractor told you that they are exempt? Fact: A state approved Worker's Compensation exemption only applies to the ONE individual, NOT a company. Any helpers, sub-contractors, delivery persons, vendors and/or others may make you liable for any medical, disability and/or death claims. Has the Contractor been a licensed Contractor specializing in Remodeling for a minimum of 10-years or is my project part of the learning curve? Fact: Remodeling experience is entirely unlike new construction. Will the Contractor provide notarized Lien Releases with every Payment Request to protect my property from the Florida Mechanics Lien laws? Have I asked the Contractor if they have ever had a complaint filed against them? Have I checked? You may call the Better Business Council at 748-3411 for complaints filed locally and use the internet to check by name or license number at https://www.myfloridalicense.com/wl11.asp Does this Contractor have the type of people I feel like we can talk to and will be fair with us on issues that always come up during the construction phase? Do I speak with a live person when I call during business hours or do I speak to a recorder? Do I feel comfortable that the Contractor will always return my calls promptly? Does the Contractor list a physical office address that I can go to? Is this the type of construction firm that I feel that I can trust with my home and family?