Okay, so now you are on your way to choosing a contractor that will fit your needs for your home improvement project. What kinds of questions should you ask?

First, identify challenges that may be unique to the type of home you live in: condominium, townhome, single family home (i.e.: If you live in a multi-level building you may have to contact your association to inquire if they provide elevator protection and to determine weight limits) Explain your specific goal to the contractor , including the deadline. You may want to provide your request in writing and get a written estimate. And ask for references. You may want to find out if and how they dispose of construction debris in case your building or neighborhood does not allow for the use of their trash facilities.

To make it even easier, following are some questions you may want to share with your home care professional or consider yourself during the planning process.

Air Conditioning.

What kind of systems does the company install?

Which brands do they carry?

What kind of warranty does the unit carry?

If the work is being conducted in a multi-level building and the unit is on the roof, will a crane be needed?

Cabinets.

What type of materials are available: plywood, solid wood, melamine, etc?

Can custom-built cabinets be built?

What kind of finishes offered?

What kind of upgrades are offered?

What kind of hardware can be chosen?

Countertops.

What kind of materials are offered, granite, quartz.. etc?

What kind of edge finishes are offered?

What kind of sink can be used: drop in or undermount?

If you live in a high rise, what’s the largest piece you can get in your home (consider elevator dimensions)?

Carpentry.

If you live in a multi-level building, where is material cut?

What kinds of materials does the company work with, pine, oak…etc?

If your association only allows specific exterior door styles, can they match them?

Electrical.

Is your existing electrical service capable of handling the load for upgrades?

Are your existing switches and outlets up to code?

How long will your be without power?

General Contractors.

How much of the work is done by the company’s employees?

Does the business cover all warrantees or are they covered by any subcontractors that are used?

Painting.

What brands of paint does the business use?

Do you need to remove pictures, wall hangings furniture, etc?

Does the company provide custom faux finishes?

Plumbing.

How long will the water be off?

If you have a one bathroom home, will you be able to use the bathroom during remodeling?

Can you provide your own faucets, shower valves, etc?

What kind of warranty is provided?

Tile & Flooring.

What brands do you carry?

Do you move furniture?

When can you walk on/clean the finished surface?

What kind of cleaning products will you be able to use?

Windows & Shutters

What brands do you carry?

Does your condo only allow for a specific type of window? If so, can the provider match the existing style?

Can you add a tint to the windows?

Are the windows custom-made?

Do they provide a layout for panel shutters?

Are your shutters custom made?

What colors can you choose from?