general contractor services in Harford County and Bel-Air Maryland

PM Home Remodel – Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling FAQs

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Frequently asked questions

Finding a good home contractor

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General Contractor

Finding Your Home Improvement Hero

Let's face it: embarking on a home improvement project can be daunting. You want to make sure you're getting the best value for your hard-earned money, but you also want a contractor who's reliable and trustworthy. Enter Matt Ehrlichman, CEO, chairman, and founder of Porch Group, a software company for the home improvement service industry, who has some sage advice for homeowners on the hunt for the perfect contractor.

According to Ehrlichman, the key to success lies in a focused plan, thorough research, and utilizing a trusted network for every project. So, buckle up and get ready for a crash course in finding your home improvement hero!

The Nitty-Gritty: Crafting a Detailed Plan

Before you even think about reaching out to contractors, Ehrlichman suggests creating a highly detailed and specific plan for your project. The more specific your plan, the more accurate your cost estimate may be. This helps ensure you're hiring the right contractor for the job and keeps everyone on the same page.

Know Your Costs: Labor, Materials, and More

When seeking estimates, keep in mind that the cost of labor and materials has risen significantly since the start of the pandemic. Being aware of these increases will help you evaluate bids more accurately and avoid sticker shock down the road.

Phone a Friend: Tapping Into Your Trusted Network

When it comes to finding a reliable contractor, word of mouth is golden. Ehrlichman advises checking with neighbors, local hardware stores, and past real estate agents for personalized recommendations. Because, let's be honest, who doesn't love a good referral?

The Interview Process: Contractor Speed Dating

Ehrlichman suggests requesting bids from at least three contractors (though five is even better). This helps you get a sense of the fair market price and allows you to compare offerings. Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions, and always verify that the contractor is licensed and insured. After all, uninsured contractors may cost less, but the financial and legal risk isn't worth the savings.

License and Insurance: The Dynamic Duo

It's essential to verify your contractor's license and insurance. Each state has different requirements, which can typically be checked through your state's labor office. Aside from that, experience is crucial. Ehrlichman suggests asking potential contractors about their work history and checking their references. You want a seasoned professional on your side!

Patience is a Virtue: Be Realistic About Availability

Contractors are in high demand, especially in this economy. You may have to wait to start your home construction project depending on the contractor's availability. Just remember, good things come to those who wait!

Matchmaker, Matchmaker: Choosing the Right Contractor for Your Project

To ensure your project is completed the right way, choose a contractor that specializes in the kind of work you want done. Look at the company's past work to see if it's the right fit for your home. After all, you wouldn't hire a plumber to build a deck, would you?

Get it in Writing: Contracts and Ground Rules

Once you've chosen your contractor, it's time to sign a contract and negotiate ground rules. Your contract should list everything you want completed, including deadlines, payment schedules, materials, model numbers, and who will provide which materials. This ensures everyone is on the same page and helps minimize misunderstandings.

Permits and Deposits: Crossing Your T's and Dotting Your I's

Large home projects will likely require building permits. Your contractor should obtain these permits, so be cautious if they ask you to do it yourself. Also, expect to pay a deposit before work begins. This helps secure your place on the contractor's schedule and ensures the project moves forward after purchasing materials.

Expect the Unexpected: Budgeting for Surprises

Home construction projects often come with surprises. Set aside 10% to 20% of your budget as a cushion for unexpected expenses. That way, you won't be caught off guard when those pesky surprises pop up.

Communication is Key: Staying in Touch with Your Contractor

Talk to your contractor often to confirm everything is on track and progressing according to schedule. A good contractor should provide frequent updates, but don't hesitate to speak up if you see any potential problems. Addressing issues early on can save headaches down the line.

Finishing Touches: Lien Releases, Receipts, and Final Payments

Before you make the final payment, request copies of receipts for all materials, as well as lien releases from all subcontractors and the general contractor. This protects you from potential financial and legal issues down the road. Only make the final payment when you're completely satisfied with the completed work and have received all necessary paperwork.

With this guide, you'll be well-equipped to find your home improvement hero and embark on a successful project. Happy renovating!

General Questions

1. What services do you offer?
We provide a wide range of home improvement services, including kitchen remodeling, bathroom renovations, basement finishing, exterior upgrades, roofing, decking, painting, and general home renovations. Our team of experienced contractors is equipped to handle projects of all sizes.

2. How do I get a quote for my project?

Getting a quote is simple! You can request a free estimate through our website by filling out the contact form or calling us directly. One of our project managers will reach out to discuss your needs, schedule a consultation, and provide you with a detailed, transparent estimate.

3. Do you offer financing options?
Yes, we understand that home improvement projects are a significant investment. We offer flexible financing options to help you bring your dream project to life without straining your budget. Contact us to learn more about our financing plans.

4. Are you licensed and insured?
Absolutely. We are fully licensed, bonded, and insured to protect both our clients and our team. Our licenses are up-to-date, and we adhere to all local, state, and federal regulations.

5. What areas do you serve?
We proudly serve Harford County, Baltimore County. Howard County, Montgomery County and more. If you're unsure if we operate in your area, feel free to reach out, and we'll be happy to assist you.

Project Questions

6. How long does a typical remodeling project take?

The timeline for a project depends on its size and complexity. For example:

Bathroom remodels typically take 2-4 weeks.
Kitchen remodels may take 4-8 weeks.
Basement finishing may require 6-10 weeks.

We will provide a customized project timeline during your consultation to ensure you have a clear understanding of the process.

7. Can I make changes to the project once it starts?
We strive to accommodate changes whenever possible. However, any changes made after work begins may affect the project timeline and budget. Our project manager will discuss any adjustments with you before implementation.

8. Do I need to obtain permits for my project?
For most major renovations, permits are required. The good news is, we handle the entire permit process for you, ensuring everything is done according to local building codes and regulations?

9. Do you provide design services?
Yes, we offer design consultation services to help you visualize and plan your project. Our experienced designers will work with you to create a custom layout, select materials, and bring your dream space to life.

10. Can I live in my home during the renovation?
It depends on the scope of the project. For smaller renovations, you may be able to stay in your home. For larger projects like full kitchen remodels or major structural changes, it may be more convenient to make alternate living arrangements during construction.

Pricing & Payment Questions

11. How much does a home improvement project cost?
The cost depends on the type, size, and scope of the project. We provide detailed, itemized estimates so you know exactly what to expect. Contact us for a personalized quote.

12. Do you offer price matching or discounts?
We occasionally offer seasonal promotions and holiday discounts. Be sure to check our website or contact us to ask about current promotions.

13. What payment methods do you accept?
We accept various payment methods, including credit cards, checks, and electronic transfers. We also offer financing options for qualified customers.

Quality Assurance & Warranty

14. Do you offer a warranty on your work?
Yes, we stand behind the quality of our work. We offer a 1-year warranty on labor and honor manufacturer warranties on the products and materials we use. If you encounter any issues with our work, we’ll make it right.

15. How do you ensure quality control?
We have a dedicated project manager assigned to each project, who conducts regular inspections to ensure everything is up to our high standards. Before completion, we conduct a final walkthrough with you to address any last-minute details or adjustments.

16. What happens if something goes wrong after the project is complete?
If an issue arises after your project is complete and it falls within the warranty period, we will promptly address it. Simply contact us, and we'll send a technician to resolve it.

Scheduling & Communication

17. How do I schedule a project start date?
Once you’ve approved the estimate and signed the contract, we will schedule a start date that works for you. Our project manager will provide you with a detailed timeline for each phase of the project.

18. Will I be updated throughout the project?
Yes! We maintain open and transparent communication throughout the project. You will have a dedicated point of contact (typically the project manager) who will provide updates and address any questions or concerns.

19. What happens if there are delays?
While we strive to meet deadlines, sometimes delays can occur due to unforeseen factors such as weather, supply chain issues, or unexpected discoveries during demolition. If delays happen, we will notify you immediately and provide a revised schedule.

Post-Project Questions

20. Do you offer post-project cleanup?
Yes, we leave your home as clean as possible. Our team conducts a thorough cleanup at the end of the project, removing debris, dust, and excess materials to ensure your space is move-in ready.

21. Can I provide feedback or leave a review?
Absolutely! We value your feedback and strive for continuous improvement. We encourage you to leave a review on Google, Yelp, or our website. Positive reviews help other homeowners find a contractor they can trust.

22. What if I’m not satisfied with the final result?
Your satisfaction is our priority. If you have any concerns with the final result, please let us know during the final walkthrough. We will work to address any issues promptly to ensure you’re happy with the outcome.

PM Home Remodel – Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling FAQs

FAQs

What do you look for to find a good home contractor?

General Questions​

Project Questions

Pricing & Payment Questions​

Quality Assurance & Warranty​

Scheduling & Communication

Post-Project Questions​

General Questions

Pricing & Payment Questions

Quality Assurance & Warranty

Post-Project Questions