It’s a significant investment to hire a land improvement contractor, but worth the time and money because of the results that can be achieved. The most important decision you will make is hiring a contractor you can trust. It’s essential to be sure you are working with a team that brings years of experience to the table and has the best services to complete the project safely, efficiently, and to match your satisfaction.
When you are searching for a reputable contractor, there are several important factors that you must keep in mind. Here are a few tips to be sure that you are working with a reliable and skilled team.
How Long Have They Been in Business?
Regardless of the type of home improvement project you are working on, make sure to hire a contractor that has been in business for a while. Longevity typically means that the contractor is experienced in the industry and has built a stable business over the years. Not only do they have plenty of experience, but they likely have a network of local suppliers and providers, ensuring the highest quality results for your project.
If you are considering hiring a newer company, then ask about the experience of the staff members who will be overseeing your project. It’s important to check about the business timeline as well as the experience of each individual on the team.
Is Their License Up to Date?
It’s smart to ask about the contractor’s current licensing and insurance. A good contractor will not only go through the process to get the proper licensing, but they will also be proactive about making sure that everything is up to date at all times.
Having the right insurance coverage and licensing helps to reduce your liability. It also shows that the contractor is maintaining compliance with all industry standards and regulations. A good contractor will have all of these details in place before stepping foot on the job site. If you are wondering about the team’s credentials, then ask questions about their licensing when you are choosing a land improvement contractor to hire.
If you find that the team doesn’t have the proper licensing, then don’t take the risk! It’s critical to make sure that you are working with an experienced and professional contractor on this type of project. An unlicensed contractor can put your project at risk, which is why licensing is non-negotiable.
Do They Help with the Permit Process?
Permits are always necessary before the project can begin. While you can often get the necessary permits, it can be a complicated process if you don’t have experience in the industry. Find a contractor who will help with the permitting. They will understand the local regulations and whether it’s necessary for you to have a permit, then offer recommendations to ensure smooth access to the right permits.
It’s important that you have expert help to guide you through this process. If there are delays with the permits, then it can push back the entire project. So, an experienced land improvement contractor will help you save both time and money by ensuring that the necessary permits are in hand at the right time.
Will They Call in a Markout?
Before excavation begins, it’s necessary to make sure that a “markout” is complete. This process is a way of identifying and marking where all of the utility lines are running underground. The goal is to map everything out before the digging begins, which helps to minimize potential utility outages, complications, site damage, and injuries.
When you are working with a responsible contractor, they will be unwilling to start digging without first handling the process of utility markouts. They will take care of all of the planning and details to ensure that their team can move forward safely, without damage to the nearby utility lines.
Do They Focus on Safety?
It goes without saying that safety should always be a top priority for any contractor that you hire. It’s critical to maintain a safe working environment for the team members, and also ensure the safety of your property and any surrounding buildings.
While accidents happen at times, these risks are much lower when you are working with a land improvement contractor who is proactive about proper safety protocols. Ask about their safety record and how their team members are trained. It’s also a good idea to discuss unique hazards on your work site to find out about the customized safety plan that will be implemented during your project.
Do They Understand Your Goals?
Clear communication should be a part of your experience, every step of the way. Choose a general contractor who prioritizes communication so you can be kept up-to-date on the status of the project and anything else that you need to know about.
You deserve to be working with a contractor who listens to your needs, asks clarifying questions, and provides all of the information that is necessary for you to know about the scope of work. A professional contractor won’t hesitate to talk to you about the plans and provide clear explanations when necessary.
How Does Their Digital Footprint Look?
When doing your research, it’s inevitable that you’ll come across hundreds of contractor websites, and hundreds more profiles on Google Business. Across all of these digital platforms, pay attention to how these contractors present themselves– and how others speak of them. Read reviews, both good and bad, and see if you notice any concerning patterns. Keep an eye out for comments that mention pricing, reliability, communication, and organization of the site. Look for features on their website like before and after pictures and other testimonials to get a full picture of who your contractor is.
Speak With a Trusted New Jersey Land Improvement Contractor
When you are getting ready to hire a land improvement contractor, we invite you to contact our professional team at Mikula Contracting. We bring years of experience to your project, and offer the best services you can find in the local industry. Our responsiveness, constant communication, commitment to maintaining an organized job site, and history of excellence set us apart. Contact us to schedule a consultation and we will gladly discuss the services that are needed for your project.
