When hiring a contractor always ask for references. In most cases they will be given readily, but please don't stop the process there. Take the next step and make the phone calls! Many people find this difficult to do, using the rationale that if references are given, the contractor must be okay. While this may be true, you should want to more know about the people that may be in your home for the next two weeks or six months. Here are some "Dos and Don'ts" which will make the process easier for everyone involved.

Don't ask for references in your first phone conversation with the contractor. Meet the contractor first and get a feel for him and his company. Maybe you'll decide you don't like him, or that the project is too expensive, or that your brother-in-law can do the work after all.

__ Do wait until you are sure you are seriously considering the contractor before asking for references.

Don't accept a list of references without notation by the contractor of who is best for you to contact regarding your project. Many contractors will proudly give you a list of every client since the beginning of time. While this is a good sign, ask for clarification. Which projects are similar to your own? Which projects were completed within the last five years? Which clients had concerns similar to yours?

__ Three to six references should be sufficient.

Don't let the reference list sit on your desk gathering dust. As stated above, it is a good indication that the contractor is reputable if your are given references. However, references are useless unless they are checked. It is most important that you find out how the company was to work with from a variety of sources.

__ Do call all the references before making a decision about hiring a contractor.

Don't feel intrusive or uncomfortable about calling the references. Most people are happy to talk about their construction experiences, good or bad. Calling during the day and leaving a message on the homeowner's answering machine allows them to call you back at a convenient time. Or, call early evening or on the weekend.

__ Do call references!

Have a list of questions ready to ask. You might set up a grid where you can note the comments of all the people you call on a question-by-question basis. This makes for easy analysis once the calls are completed.

__ Be prepared with questions before calling the references.

Visit the reference projects if it is convenient for you and the homeowner. The definition of quality can be quite broad. There is no substitute for seeing the work in person. While not imperative, take advantage of the opportunity to visit the project if offered.

__ See real examples of the contractor's work if possible.

1. Did the client feel fully informed about what was and was not covered in the contract?

2. Was the work crew reliable and responsible?

3. Were workers on the job as scheduled, or, if not, was there advance notification?

4. Was the work performed only during the previously agreed upon hours?

5. Was the crew conscious of their impact on the household and did they stay within the defined work area?

6. Did they respect landscaping, pets, etc. that needed to be minded?

7. Was there regular contact with the contractor regarding your project?

8. Was the job site left as clean? Were the floors swept up every day? Was the lumber stacked neatly?

9. Was there a proper system for disposal of garbage? 

10. Did the quality of workmanship meet your expectations?

11. Would you hire this company again?