Things to Remember When Choosing a Builder

  1. Contact the local Home Builders Association in your area. Ask them for a list of builders in your area. If you are looking in a particular development, ask the developer for a list of builders. Check the real estate section of your newspaper. It’s a good starting point to learn which builders are active in your area, the types of homes they are building or remodeling and the prices you can expect to pay.
  2. Ask friends and relatives for recommendations. Ask about builders they have dealt with directly or ask them for names of acquaintances who have recently had a good experience with a builder.
  3. Verify the contractor’s name, address and phone number. Be wary of workers who give you a pager number or post office box address rather than street addresses.
  4. Make sure your contractor has a CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL BUILDER designation.
  5. Contact your local Home Builders Association to see if the builder/remodeler you have selected is a member in good standing. Click on the Local Associations tab to find the HBA nearest you.
  6. Request references on similar work performed by the builder/remodeler. Ask to see a job in progress and ask for the name(s) and number of the customer(s) with whom they have completed projects that are over a year old. Okay, you got the references? Now, make the call. Too often we hear of people getting references but not calling them.
  7. If you are having a house built, see if the builder has continuing education credentials such as CGB (Certified Graduate Builder). If you are having remodeling work done see if he or she has a CGR (Certified Graduate Remodeler) designation.

Before Your Project Begins

Make sure you have a contract. Be wary of a builder who does not offer a contract. Seek legal assistance if you have trouble understanding the contract. The following should be in the contract:

  • Proof of coverage of all applicable insurance, including worker’s compensation and liability insurance.
  • Finance charges and a payment schedule.
  • Guarantees and warranties.
  • Tentative start and finish dates