How to Find a Reliable Contractor

Talk to friends, neighbors, relatives and coworkers who have done renovations, and ask about their experience with their contractor. Be sure you talk to people who have undertaken jobs similar to the one you're planning. Putting on an addition is a much bigger job (and requires more skills and expertise) than a kitchen or bathroom update.

Check with local building centers where contractors get their materials. Sometimes these stores keep a list of contractors who do work similar to the job you are planning.

Call some local real estate agents and ask them if they know of any reputable builders in the area. An agent may be willing to provide you with some information in anticipation of future business or a referral.

Shorten the list of potential contractors by calling a few on your list and asking some questions.
Ask how long they're been in business and if they have done work similar to yours. Some states require contractors to be licensed, so ask if they are licensed to do work similar to your job.
Ask if they belong to any professional building associations and whether they carry workmen's compensation and personal liability insurance to cover sub trades when they're working on your property.
Ask for the names of clients for whom they have done jobs similar to yours, and be sure to let the contractor know you will be contacting these people.

Check with the references provided by your chosen contractors and ask them questions such as:
• Did the contractor do the job on time and on schedule? If not, why not?
• How was the working relationship with the contractor? Did he and his men show up on time and provide a full day's wok?
• Did the contractor and his crew treat your home, property and family with respect?
• Were there any misunderstandings or disputes during the project, and if so, how were they resolved?

Based on your conversations, narrow your list down to three or four contractors to provide quotes on your job.