Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Concrete Contractor
The success of your project depends on the selection of the right concrete contractor, regardless if you are building a patio, driveway, or foundation. The final product’s durability and aesthetics are directly affected by the quality of the work. Many homeowners and business owners choose contractors in the wrong way, and this can have costly and frustrating results. Here are some mistakes you should avoid when choosing a concrete contractor.
- Failure to check credentials and experience
You can make a big mistake by not checking out the credentials and the experience of any potential contractor. You must ensure that the contractor has been licensed, insured, and bonded. The licensed contractor will meet local standards and regulations, while the insurance will protect you in case of an accident or damage during the project. Also, make sure the contractor has experience with concrete, especially in the project type you are planning. To gauge their experience, ask for references or previous examples.
- Choosing Based On Price Alone
It’s tempting, but choosing a contractor solely based on the price can be a mistake. Low prices could indicate inferior materials, inadequate insurance, or cutting corners on the project. Consider the value of your project instead of just focusing on price. Included in this are the materials used, the reputation of the contractor, and the scope included in the estimate. It is worth paying a little more if you want a quality job that will last many years.
- Not getting a written contract
A written contract is another common mistake. It is not sufficient to protect your interest if there are issues during or after a project. The contract should include the details of the project, including materials, timeframes, payment schedules, warranties, and guarantees. Include a clause that explains how any changes or extra work will be handled. A detailed contract can help prevent misunderstandings, and provide legal protection in the event of a dispute.
- Overlooking Permits & Regulations
Concrete work is often subject to permits, particularly for projects that involve structural changes or major alterations of your property. Many homeowners assume the contractor will take care of all permits. This is not always true. Before starting a project, make sure your contractor is familiar with local regulations and can obtain the required permits. If you fail to obtain the necessary permits, it can lead to fines, delays in the project, or the need to redo work.
- Don’t Ask About Cleanup or Disposal
Concrete work is messy and the improper disposal of debris may lead to increased costs and environmental issues. Discuss who will be responsible for the cleanup and disposal of waste before hiring a contractor. Be sure to include this in the contract so that you don’t have to worry about unexpected costs and a mess after the project.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your project will be completed on schedule, within your budget, and according to your expectations. You can hire a contractor for concrete work with confidence if you thoroughly vet potential contractors. Focus on the value of the project, rather than price. Secure a detailed contract, ensure compliance with regulations, and clearly define responsibilities regarding cleanup. These steps will ensure that you get a durable, high-quality result for your property.
This post was written by a professional at Apexx Enterprise LLC. Adam Ortega founded the company Apexx Enterprise LLC, in 2016 at only 20 years old. Mr. Ortega has become a licensed general concrete contractors Marana AZ like his father and grandfather before him. Apexx Enterprise LLC is licensed, bonded, and insured and it is available for review at the Better Business Bureau. Apexx Enterprise LLC has won many achievements within the Home Advisor platform and we have multiple reviews as well. Their Mission Statement – “Our crew at Apexx Enterprise will perform the highest quality construction services for our customers. We aim to achieve our mission through total service satisfaction and by delivering our services while maintaining the highest levels of professionalism, integrity, and honesty.”
