How Do You Choose The Right Decking Contractor?

In a way, contractors are a lot like lawyers.

Just how many lawyer jokes are you aware? Lots, probably. (Our favorite: "What can you call fifty lawyers at the bottom of the ocean? A good start.") Lawyers are probably probably the most maligned sets of professionals out there, although it's much more likely that the vast majority of attorneys are courteous, professional, and ethical in their dealings. When was the final time you actually met a really evil lawyer?

Contractors suffer exactly the same fate. Most contractors are good at what they do, charge a fair price and get the work done reasonably quickly. But we all know the typical stereotype: Slovenly, unwashed men desperately looking for a better way to keep their pants from drooping too lower in the back, who arrive late and leave without nailing so much as a single board. It's hard out there for a contractor. It's even harder for contractors who specialize in decking, since decks are most homeowners' notion of the final touch on the dream homes.

But some contractors, like the majority of lawyers, are friendly and fair in their interactions with clients, there are some bad apples out there. It is important for consumers to know how exactly to spot those apples before signing a contract. Here are a few pointers on selecting the right decking contractor:

Check review sites like Angie's List. The Internet has exposed a universe of information for the discriminating consumer. Angie's List works by region, allowing members to review contractors in every 50 states. If it is time to hire a decking contractor, starting your search at an assessment site could net you some valuable information. Keep this at heart throughout your search - it could make the difference between putting a decking contractor on the "yes" list or the "maybe" list.

Research the relevant local codes and regulations yourself before starting your search.  https://urbandeck.ca/markham/  are just like outbuildings - their construction must stick to a set of codes and standards that differs based on location. Your new decking project could be limited by zoning laws in proportions, height or nearness to the street. Check these laws before calling around, and ensure that your potential decking contractor's knowledge of the situation.

See if he'll provide a free estimate. Some estimates can not be given for free. A plumber, for instance, may need to use specialized equipment to locate a leak, which can mean big money. But decks aren't like that - it's not at all hard to visualize how a deck will look, what sort of work will be involved in its construction, and just how long it will take to build. If a contractor won't do that for free, that could be enough reason never to hire him. You can also use your experience in getting the estimate to gauge the contractor's professionalism: Is he promptly? Does he respond to your questions with polite courtesy? Does he use hard-sell or strong-arm tactics to make you bring him on board? This is the time to weed out potential troublemakers.

Require local references or provide pictures of decks he's built in the past. If you were hiring a fresh employee in the office, you'd want to see a resume or a portfolio. This should be no different. Ask your contractor: What's he done before? Does he have any letters of support or recommendation from his past customers? (His website may be good spot to find these.) If his experience in decking projects is bound, is he ready to lower his price?

Learn if he's insured. This may be the main question you ask. Can be your decking contractor's company insured against claims covering worker's compensation or property damage? Think about personal liability in the event of accidents? Get the name of his carrier and agency, and create a call to be certain.

Assuming you have kids or pets, make sure to have them around through the estimate. They're sure to be around whenever your decking contractor does the work, so make sure he knows they're going to be a fixture. Of course, you do not want them getting in his way - someone could easily get hurt, and it's important for you to be considered a courteous client. But if he responds negatively, that could be a sign of potential conflict down the road.

Make certain the contract has contact information, a payment schedule, a work schedule and total costs. Obviously, you will want to go over the contract thoroughly prior to making the hire, but it's important to make sure it contains this information.