A general contractor usually oversees projects and brings together the people who complete different tasks like plumbing, roofing, flooring, and electrical work. Whether building a house from scratch or doing major renovations, the contractor you work with determines the quality of services, timeline, and costs.

Before you start, determine what you want from the project. Go over the services and materials you want for the project, and estimate the budget.

Then, research general contractors near you and conduct phone interviews. During the interview, ask the general contractor what services they offer and ask for a price estimate. Ensure that the estimate is well-detailed and includes all aspects of the project without any hidden costs.

Know their availability and when they can start the project. This will help eliminate contractors based on your desired services, schedule, and budget.

Next, eliminate contractors based on their reputation by reading customer reviews and comparing ratings. You can find these on the contractor's websites, Yelp, Google, Glassdoor, Top Ten Reviews, and social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter.

When reading reviews, look at what most people complain about and how the contractor replies. While negative reviews show a contractor's shortcomings, how they respond to them determines whether they are worth working with. Work with a contractor who appreciates the negative criticism and tries to eliminate the issue for future clients. You should also look for positive reviews and compare the different contractors' weaknesses and strengths.

Have a face-to-face interview with the remaining contractors. This is usually the most crucial part of the hiring process, and you should take your time.

First, assess the contractor's equipment, materials, and their conditions. Look at where they get their materials and how extensive their selection is.

Next, ask about their experience. The longer they have been offering the services, the better the results will be. Ask how many projects they have completed in the last few months and how many clients had similar needs to yours. Ask to see a portfolio of photos and videos of past projects. It would also help to ask for contacts of some of their past clients.

Also ask your general contractor for their licenses, permits, and insurance to ensure they are updated. Licenses and permits certify that the business is legit, has met all requirements, and works with qualified employees. They also help you look for the contractor on BBB to see their ratings and reviews.

Liability insurance helps assure you that the contractor covers you for any damages or injuries you experience as they work. Employee compensation insurance shows that they compensate their employees fairly, especially after injuries at work. You should ask about warranty agreements and how long you will continue receiving maintenance services after the project.

After finding a general contractor who checks your boxes, note your agreement on paper. A contract is essential because it ensures there will be no issues mid-project.

The contract should contain the contractor's legal business name and address, your name and address, project scope, cost breakdown, project timeline, schedule, and payment terms. Ensure both of you sign it, and keep your contract copy in a safe place.