Choosing a Builder, Remodeler and a Contractor Choosing a Builder, Remodeler and a contractor is a very important decision. When you pick a skilled craftsman, like Mueller Builders, LLC, the job will make the renovation experience stress-free and exciting. Mueller Builders, LLC would like to help you do your homework. Keep the following things in mind when choosing your builder/ contractor: View the Builder’s portfolios, referrals, credentials, etc. Do they offer a Warranty on their work? Research the local Home and Builders Associations and any other associations to see if they are a member. This will tell you if they are up to code with their standards. How many projects do they have going on at the time you want your work done? Depending on the size of the company, for a smaller company, three or more projects may be too many for them to take on another project at that time. Compare allowance is how much a product costs, depends on the quality. Some Builders lower your allowances to get the job and when the job is done, you will spend more money because of the allowance was quoted too low and you went over the budget with the products you chose. Are they properly licensed? Do they have insurance? How much money is required up front to begin the project? When are additional payments to be made? Who cleans the site? Remember, they will be in or around your home for a period of time. Are they courteous, personable, and professional? Their appearance will give you a preview of how they will run your project. Can the contractor produce a product that will fit your needs? Does the contractor listen and understand what I want? Do they respond in a way that addresses my concerns? Is the contractor courteous, personable, and professional? Do we communicate well and effectively? Would my family and I feel comfortable working with this company? Need more information? Contact Mueller Builders Red flag signs of the unprofessional contractor: Doesn’t have license and/or insurance Doesn’t write contracts to spell out the work to be completed with timeframe and estimate Requires cash payment in full before beginning the project Vastly underbids all the other contractors Cannot provide customer references Difficulty contacting the contractor. Does he return your calls in a prominent manner? Does not have a portfolio of past projects to show you the quality of his/her work.