Every homeowner on Long Island knows the nightmare of finding a trustworthy masonry contractor. The industry is full of smooth-talking and confident guys who might seem like a great match. But then your renovation or remodeling project can quickly devolve into a nightmare when you find that they’re incompetent and apathetic. Before you know it, you’re out a large chunk of money and your home is in worse shape than before.

Flawless Masonry has been Long Island’s foremost masonry contractor for years by doing the opposite of what shady contractors do. Whether it’s installing a concrete driveway or landscape design, we’re all about quality and customer service. Many homeowners simply don’t know how to identify a contractor worth hiring. And unfortunately, that uncertainty can lead to bigger (and more expensive) problems.

If you’re not sure how to find the right contractor for you, we’ve gathered a helpful step-by-step guide below.

 

1. Know What You Need

Knowing what you need is the first step in finding the right masonry contractor. By making a list of what you need done, you will have an easier time assessing potential contractors.

Additionally, figuring out your budget beforehand is a smart move. Financial conditions should be set immediately to avoid any miscommunication with your contractor. And, if you list all of your expectations right away, the process of finding the right contractor will be smoother.

2. Do Research

Now this might be the most important step of all. Thanks to the Internet, if a contractor has a history of shady business practices and poor work, there’s probably a record of it.

It’s crucial to become familiar with a contractor’s past work. Take a look at their website, read their reviews, analyze costs, and look for testimonials. It also helps to take a look at how long the contractor’s been in business. If they’ve been active for a longer period of time, their work is probably more refined. And if they’re an older business, it’s most likely because of their customer satisfaction and good word-of-mouth.

If you have a specific job in mind, make sure the contractor is up to the task. Many contractors specialize in certain projects and complete them better than others might. For example: if you’re looking for a repair job, research your contractors to ensure they’ve done it before and done it well. But if you’re looking for something like an outdoor fireplace constructed, they should have photos of their previous jobs available to check on their website.

3. Request Permits & An Estimate in Advance

Well before the job begins, you should request permit details. A competent contractor should be familiar with all of the permits required to complete the project. If they’re unfamiliar with local building codes, that can be an enormous red flag. Experienced contractors usually handle the permits themselves.

Like permits, a good contractor should also be fully licensed and insured. Compliance is critical when it comes to contracting! Liability insurance and workman’s compensation are two signs of a competent professional.

Requesting estimates before the job starts is a great way to avoid future headaches. A good contractor should be able to provide a complete breakdown of all costs. This way, you know exactly where the money will be spent.

4. Get Everything In Writing

Contracts, contracts, contracts! Get everything in writing! We can’t possibly stress this enough.

Having a detailed contract that outlines all of the terms, conditions and expenses is critical to a smooth repair or renovation. Your contractor should be able to provide you with a clear contract and estimate. Nothing should be left to your imagination. It’s never a good sign if a contractor is vague or unclear about specific aspects of the job.

True professionals should never be unable or unwilling to provide you with the right documents upon request. And everything should be clearly in print before any of the work begins.

 

Conclusion

Flawless Masonry has been Long Island’s top masonry contractor for years by placing a high priority on customer satisfaction. It’s important for any homeowner who needs repairs or renovations to find the right contractor to avoid stress and unnecessary expenses.