A qualified general contractor has the knowledge and experience to manage all aspects of a construction project from start to finish, including any special considerations required when building a deck. With the assistance of an experienced general contractor, you can be confident that your deck will be built to last and provide years of enjoyment.
Qualifications to look for
When you plan to build or rebuild your deck, you need to know how to hire a general contractor. Qualifications of general contractors vary, so it is important to research and make sure you choose a qualified contractor. Here are some qualifications you should look for when selecting a general contractor to build or rebuild your deck:
Licensing
A qualified general contractor should have the necessary licensing and credentials in your area. Check with the local licensing board to ensure your contractor is properly licensed.
Experience
A qualified general contractor should have several years of experience in the construction industry, especially with deck building. Ask for references and check out the company’s portfolio to ensure they have the relevant experience to get your project done right.
Insurance
A qualified general contractor should have public liability and worker’s compensation insurance. This ensures that you are protected from financial responsibility in the event of any damage or injury.
Reference
A qualified general contractor should have positive references from past clients. Ask for references and contact as many of them as possible to get an accurate picture of the company’s work.
Benefits of hiring a general contractor
When you decide to build or rebuild your deck, hiring a general contractor is the best way to ensure the job is done correctly. Here are some benefits of hiring a qualified general contractor:
Cost savings: A qualified general contractor can help save money on materials, labor costs, and project time by coordinating all aspects of the construction project.
Proper planning and management: A qualified general contractor can provide appropriate planning and project management to ensure it is completed on time and within budget.
Reduced risk: A qualified general contractor protects against any liability or safety risks associated with construction projects.
Peace of mind: With a qualified general contractor, you can know that your deck will be built to your specifications and following all safety regulations.
Timeliness: A qualified contractor can help you complete your project on time by coordinating materials and subcontractors efficiently.
Safety: A qualified general contractor can help ensure your deck is built in compliance with local codes and regulations, minimizing the risk of injury or accidents.
Quality assurance: A qualified general contractor can help make sure that your deck is built to last, using quality materials and high standards of craft.
Risks of unqualified contractors
Hiring an unqualified general contractor to build or rebuild your deck can be risky. Without the proper qualifications, experience, and insurance, you could end up paying more for poor workmanship, increased liability risk, or even structural failure of your deck.
Poor Workmanship: An unqualified contractor may use low-quality materials, cut corners, or overlook building codes and regulations. This could lead to expensive repairs.
Increased Liability Risk: Without proper insurance coverage, you may be held responsible for any damage or injury on your property due to an unqualified contractor’s work.
Structural Failure: An unqualified contractor may use the wrong materials or not follow building codes and regulations, resulting in structural failure of your deck. There could be repairs or rebuilds if left unchecked, and that can cost you in the future.
How to hire a general contractor
Finding and hiring a qualified general contractor is the key to ensuring your deck is built safely and correctly. Here are some tips for finding a qualified contractor:
Check references
Ask for references from previous clients and reach out to as many of them as possible.
Do research
Research the company’s portfolio and deck building experience to ensure they have the qualifications and experience necessary to get your project done right.
Get insurance proof
Ensure the contractor has general liability and worker’s compensation insurance coverage to protect you from any liabilities associated with the project.
Compare quotes
Get at least three quotes from different contractors so that you can compare their services and prices.
In-person meeting
Schedule an in-person meeting with the general contractor to discuss your project and make sure you feel comfortable working with them.
Common questions to ask a contractor
The following are some common questions to ask a general contractor before hiring them for your project:
- What is the scope of work?Â
- How long have they been in business?Â
- Do they have references to contact?Â
- Are they insured and licensed?Â
- What type of materials will be used on the deck?
The basics to follow
Hiring a qualified contractor for your deck building is mandatory, and you must ensure that you receive a clear plan from the contractor. Here are some of the primary papers that you must follow to receive-
- A custom deck proposal that outlines the project’s scope and associated costs. This should include a complete inventory of all the decking materials used and every aspect of the design and building process.
- A precise blueprint for building a deck that shows the layout, size, and positions of the railings and stairs.
- Terms should be clearly stated, signed, and dated.
Conclusion
Hiring a qualified deck contractor is essential for ensuring your project is completed safely and correctly. With the proper preparation, you can have peace of mind knowing that your new deck will be built correctly and safely for years of enjoyment. An experienced and qualified general contractor can provide quality assurance, safety, and efficiency throughout construction. By following these tips and asking the right questions, you can find the perfect contractor for your project.
