Why should I choose a licensed contractor?

Licensing is important for a number of different reasons. The main reason being it verifies training, skills, and references. Most importantly for a client, licensing helps to hold workers in the industry accountable for their work. If you haven’t ever used a person to work on your largest asset that wasn’t licensed, think twice. Ask your friends about their experiences with that type of situation and see what they say. If you are considering a home project, be aware that there are different types of contractor licenses in SC. So, when getting estimates, don’t hesitate to ask what license a contractor has. You can contact your local licensing office to get this information as well. Our local office is SC LLR in Columbia.

Why are some estimates much higher than others?

There are any number of reasons why the same job may be priced differently than others. Materials vary in quality, cost and availability, so estimates reflect those variances. Legitimate contractor’s labor rates vary according to factors like type of licensing, expertise, years of experience, and business costs. A comprehensive estimate should include demo, disposal of construction debris, labor, and materials. The material line item will include an allowance, based on client’s material choices and the scope of the project. Optimally, estimates cover all of the costs of a project from start to finish, based on material choices, known construction factors (pre-demo), and labor.

Why is scheduling availability so long of a wait?

When you decide to make the investment in your home and make some improvements, it’s important to take into account that there are a couple of key factors that can affect the wait time. Projects that your desired contractor already have scheduled are the most significant delay to the project that you want to start. Sometimes a contractor can shift projects that are already scheduled, but this rare. Supply availability is another factor in project timelines to think about.

Why do most contractors prefer to purchase the materials for my project instead of me doing it myself?

It may seem advantageous for a client to find materials and buy them for a project themselves. However, that is fairly rare. Most times it’s better to allow your contractor to do the legwork. Contractors spend their career building a network of suppliers that offer the highest quality materials, the best warranty support, the newest technologies, and best availability. Contractors are familiar with code requirements and the accessory materials needed to complete a project in compliance with current building codes. Clients may not know these requirements and therefore lack of appropriate materials can delay a project. A good contractor will consider liability as well, because not all materials are created equally. Contractors know industry standards and follow what new technologies are available; which reduces the possibility of material failure, helps ensure longevity of materials, and maximizes client enjoyment of renovated spaces. Lastly, contractors will have established a timeline for projects with materials being delivered according to each phase of a project. This is a benefit to clients because it reduces the likelihood of damage to materials being shifted out of the way and it increases convenience of using adjacent spaces during a renovation. Contractors are there to help bring a client’s vision to life with as much ease as possible!