Instead of moving out or building an extension when you have run out of space in your home, consider your neglected basement. It represents valuable square footage of your property. It will be a shame to let it go to waste as neglected storage space for things that you have no use for.
The good news is that basement finishing and remodeling services are available to help you. Your basement can be more than a place for boxes of old stuff. It can be a new bedroom, a home office, a library, a bar, an entertainment area, or a recreational room. If you have decided to transform your basement and you are looking for a contractor for the finishing of your basement, here are the things that you should consider first.
Know your budget
Knowing how much you can afford can make the job easier for you. Sure you may have to cut back on some design ideas that you have, but knowing your budget is a good thing. For instance, you don’t have to worry about pausing your basement renovation in the middle because you ran out of budget. It will let you set realistic expectations of what’s possible and not. You can let your creativity and imagination work, knowing that your budget is not unlimited.
Knowing how much you can spend will also help you narrow down your list of prospective basement contractors.
Look for reviews and feedback online
Before you book a contractor, get to know the experience of their past customers with them. To get legit reviews and feedback, check independent review sites. You can also check with anyone you know who has worked with basement contractors. First-hand experiences of friends and peers are the best source of information on how a basement contractor works.
Review previous works
Look beyond the price and look over your prospective contractor’s previous works. Browse over their gallery of previous and current projects. Doing so will give you an idea if you and the contractor are a perfect fit. It will also help you avoid contractors whose works are below your standards and expectations.
Check if they’ve had extensive projects involving basement finishing and renovations. You do not want to get a contractor who is not experienced in renovating basements. If what you have in mind for your basement is an entertainment room, then you must also look for a contractor who has experience in what you want.
Look for licensed and insured contractors
Choose a basement contractor licensed to do home renovations and remodeling. When you choose a licensed contractor, you are ensuring the safety of the project, your home, and your family. You also place your home in good and capable hands. Licensed contractors have gained sufficient experience, training, and knowledge in what they do. You also do not have to worry about the requirements of the city and the federal government. You can have the peace of mind that your basement renovation passes structural and safety regulations.
Most licensed contractors are insured. This is to protect you, your family, and your property. Insurance gives you coverage for personal injuries and property damage that may occur during your basement renovation and finishing.
Licensed contractors also pay a bond. If they fail to meet the agreed deadline and results, the money will be paid to you. It is your contractor’s guarantee that they will perform the job to the agreed specifications and requirements. For example, if an installation of your contractor collapses and damages your wall in the process, you will be paid with the bond money.
Check their track record
How many years have your contractor been renovating basements? The longer they have been on business, the more complacent you can be that your basement is in good hands. A contracting company that’s had at least five years of experience can see problems and issues before they even happen.
Experienced contractors are also more likely to meet your expectations. Since they have been in the industry for years, they know what will work and not. They will not waste time and resources in trial and error, making them efficient and saving you money.
Check the number of employees.
You should avoid hiring contractors who will end up subcontracting their workforce. Subcontracting is not a bad thing, but it can make quality control quite difficult. Contractors with their in-house staff and workers are preferred to make sure that the quality of work is consistent.
Choosing the right basement finishing and remodeling contractor can make all the difference. The right contractor can make the project smoother and more enjoyable for everyone. Make sure that your contractor keeps an open line of communication to update you on the progress of your project. Hiring the right professional can get you the results that you want in a timely and efficient manner, and you get the amazing basement that you have dreamed of.
