When choosing a company to help with your project, it is essential to enlist the services of a proven and professional contractor. Every project is different. How can you ensure success before you’ve even begun? Bill Houston Concrete Construction, Inc. wants you to know what to look for and which questions to ask before you hire a contractor.
For most people, the easiest place to begin the hunt for a Houston concrete contractor is on the internet. Due to Houston’s large population, an internet search will return thousands of results, and the task of choosing the right one for a specific project can be a time-consuming endeavor.
However, you can narrow your results by looking for top-rated contractors, current websites, history and references. We suggest you put together a short list of 5-7 potential contractors that might fit the needs of your specific concrete project.
Once you have a list, look for customer reviews of services online. Were people satisfied with their final product, the customer interaction and the time frame to completion? Eliminate any contractors that have multiple complaints or negative reviews in the last couple of years as their services may not be the quality you deserve. Check online reviews as well as the Better Business Bureau.
Browse each contractor’s company website. Look for photos of past concrete projects as evidence of their work and craftsmanship. Check to see if they have any certificates or references on the website such as the Better Business Bureau’s Accredited Business stamp. Next, look for answers to the important questions. Some you might find online, others might require a phone call
- How long has the contractor been in business?
- Does the contractor carry general liability insurance and worker’s compensation?
- Can they provide a Certificate of Insurance?
- Can they provide job references or testimonials?
- Will they have a supervisor on site at all times who can answer questions?
- Do they provide a written warranty?
- How many days will be needed to complete the project?
- Will there be any down payments or deposits required to start?
- Does the contractor hire employees or subcontractors?
- Can the contractor provide soil testing, clearing and permits needed for the job?
These questions should help determine the ideal contractors to start contacting. Bill Houston Concrete Construction, Inc. recommends choosing the three best candidates to start with. Contact each one by phone or email. This is a good way of judging what type of relationship can be expected based on the level of customer service received on the initial contact. Good companies with years of experience will have attentive and knowledgeable people willing to help you assess goals and set appropriate expectations.
Also, make sure the contractor has a deep understanding and thorough knowledge of concrete, asphalt and the effects of different weather conditions such as heat and humidity. As you know, the weather here in Houston is unpredictable and can create big problems for inexperienced contractors and their clients.
Now it’s time for the final decision, we suggest you meet with the concrete contractors that have made the best impressions. During this meeting, you should have a chance to view their portfolio or gallery of past work, and get a quote or at least a rough estimate of your project’s cost, scope and timelines. This will give you the chance to compare and judge the best working relationship and make the most informed decision.
Contact Bill Houston Concrete Construction, Inc. at 281-443-0874 or [email protected] for a consultation.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]