Have you ever wanted to revise something in your home? Perhaps the laminate floor in your kitchen was starting to come up, or your paint was fading. These kinds of simple projects can appeal to our inner DIY-er with no trouble. But what happens when you want to do something more expansive? As homeowners, it’s important that we recognize our limits when improving our homes. Some projects are too massive, too complicated, or downright too dangerous for us to tackle alone. While some people may decry the initial expense, hiring a professional Tennessee contractor can save you time and money, among other benefits.
Experience and Expertise
Anyone who works as a contractor has been extensively trained in the field. This training includes the law surrounding home renovations and safety, as well as field-specific knowledge involving materials, techniques, technology, and building codes specific to Tennessee areas. They can get the work done efficiently while delivering superior results. If and when mistakes do happen, their professional warranty will cover any additional expense; if you tried to do the project on your own, mistakes come out of your pocket— and may void warranties.
Time Savings and Quality Workmanship
If you want something done right, you need to have the time to do it. Contractors have a lot of experience with home improvement, so they can do a job faster than your average DIYer while maintaining high-quality workmanship. By working with a contractor, you don’t have to research, plan, and execute all facets of the project alone— including whether or not you need certain permits.
Contractors have also honed their skills through years of experience after training with a boss or mentor. By hiring a contractor, you’re not just investing in home improvement— you’re investing in quality. A well-done renovation can add significant value to your home, while a botched install could drive it down.
Reliable Networking
Contractors often have an entire network of suppliers and subcontractors to help with projects. They likely have established relationships with vendors that allow them to secure high-quality materials at wholesale cost. Additionally, they can handle coordination between their part of the project and any subcontractors; all you will need to track is when to have the home open.
The performance of a subcontractor and materials from a vendor reflect on your contractor as much as they reflect on themselves, so you can trust that your contractor doesn’t rely on subpar help.
Proper Licensing and Insurance
When doing home renovations in Tennessee, it’s vital to have the right insurance and paperwork.
For projects valued over $25,000, you have two options: homeowners can occasionally get a specific license for working on their home; all other projects, projects when you don’t qualify for the homeowner’s license, and projects that are for rental properties, you will need a full contractors license. Luckily, there are multiple Tennessee contractors license exam preps online to make sure you succeed on your first try.
Additionally, certain types of work, like plumbing and electrical, require certain permits, which will have an additional cost. For the contractors’ license, you have to pass an extensive exam.
Then you have insurance. Renovation can be dangerous, and you need to be sure any accidents are covered.
If you hire a contractor, be sure that they are fully licensed and insured. They should have their Tennessee contractors license number on display on their website. If you have any doubts or just want to be extra cautious, you can verify the number with the state to ensure it is valid and up-to-date.
How to Choose the Right Tennessee Contractor
If you decide to hire a contractor, you’ll likely want to know what you should consider and look for. Like many things, talk to your family and friends first— they may have referrals for contractors they have worked with previously. You can also ask your neighbors if they know anyone local. Research any potential online, looking for things like positive client reviews and a gallery portfolio of previous work. You should also look through old news articles to be sure they haven’t been involved in anything unsavory— or, if accused, they were able to prove innocence.
When you start interviewing contractors and gathering quotes, ask for referrals from previous clients. You can also ask for proof of insurance and to see their current and valid license; professionals will understand. Home improvement is a major investment, and you’re putting a lot of trust into their business. They should be transparent and communicative to any questions and concerns.
The lowest quote for your project isn’t always the best. Make sure you trust the company behind the quote.
Hiring a home improvement contractor can be a game-changer for your project. Next time you plan a home renovation, consider the scope of the project and whether it would be a wise choice to invest in a local Tennessee professional.
