Checklist for Hiring a Qualified Remodeler

The hardest part in evaluating a remodeler is knowing exactly what to look for and ask. This detailed list from National Home Builders Association will help you decide with confidence who is the best home remodeling professional for your home.

Checklist for Hiring a Qualified Remodeler:

1. Does the builder or remodeler have a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers?

Hatchett’s office is located in Newport News; we have been here since 2002.   Our prior office location was in Hampton for 40 years.

We have been in business since 1960 and could not have done it without our great relationships with local banks and suppliers.

2. How long have they been in the building business? Longevity suggests financial stability. It usually takes three to five years to establish a financially sound business. Will they be around after the construction is complete to service any warranties?

Hatchett has been serving Hampton Roads home owners for over half-century and we have a lifetime limited warranty on all of our projects.

3. Does the remodeler carry insurance that protects you from claims arising from property damage or jobsite injuries? If not, you may be liable for any construction-related accidents on your premises.

This is an important question to ask, you do not want to be liable for any accidents during the course of your remodeling project.

4. Does the home remodeler have a track record of successful projects similar to one you are planning?

Hatchett will be happy to give you a referral list of similar projects; we will even take you similar projects we are working on and have completed to show you our quality of workmanship and materials.

5. Active participate in a trade organization such as National Association of Home Builders, Peninsula Housing and Builders Association, Tidewater Builders Association, National Kitchen and Bath Association?  These organizations help to keep their members informed about new products, construction techniques, business practices, and industry issues.

Hatchett is an active member in all the associations listed above.

6. Have you called your local Better Business Bureau? They can alert you to any complaints.

Hatchett is a member of the Better Business Bureau, with an A+ ranking.

7. Has the home remodeler earned any professional designations? Through certification programs, these organizations award designations, such as Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS), Certified Class A Contractor, to only those who meet the requirements.

The requirements to achieve the certification(s) can be difficult to meet and Hatchett is licensed for each program listed.

8. Will the builder/remodeler provide you with a complete and clearly written agreement? The agreement will benefit both of you. Review it carefully.

Hatchett provides a written agreement.  We will review the agreement with you, to make sure all of your questions are answered.

9. How much money do I need to pay up front?  

This varies greatly between companies, as a general rule you should not expect a large down payment.   Be extremely cautious of unusually low-priced estimates.  If the remodeler is unable to pay for the materials and labor as the project proceeds, this may indicate a potential problem, including you paying more down the road.

10. How will my project be supervised?

Hatchett assigns a project manager to each and every job, from start to finish, making sure your project fulfills and exceeds your expectations, is finished on time, and stays within your budget.

11. Do you offer financing?

Hatchett will be more then happy to help you get financing at a competitive rate.

12.  What type of design service do you offer, if any?

Over the past 50 years, we have perfected our design remodel process - we include an interior designer to assist you in every step of the remodeling process, from layout to fixture selection.  We also use the newest design software, which will help you visualize your new space.    Our design package also includes drawings, samples from granite to plumbing fixtures, paint color options, and much more to make the design/selection process easy and fun!

13. Ask yourself if you feel comfortable with the home remodeler and confident that this company will do the work according to your plans, budget, and specifications.