How to Choose a Sunroom Contractor
It's not only about the price on the estimate
Building a sunroom is as much about shopping around for builders as for the sunroom itself. Whatever you buy, if your contractor does a lousy job, all your hard-earned dollars can go down the gurgler and you'll be left with nothing more to show for it than terrible workmanship. It's important that you follow a few simple pointers when choosing a showroom contractor and do your homework instead of taking someone's word for it that they are an expert.
Ask your retailer
When you choose the sunroom you want, your retailer will probably have a list of contractors that they recommend for construction. It's often a good idea to use one of these because they are 100% familiar with the product and have a great line of communication between themselves and the company. If anything's missing from the inventory, they can follow it up quickly. If you want to customize in some way, they can liaise with the company and make it happen. Some retailer-endorsed contractors also offer a discount thanks to the recommendation.
The phone book
It seems like such a logical starting point but when you let your fingers do the walking, you may miss out on some important information. Whomever you invite to provide you with an estimate should be able to show you references from previous satisfied customers. If he can give you their phone numbers so you can call them, all the better. Check his credentials. Is he an experienced sunroom contractor or does he specialize in other kinds of construction? Has he been in business for long enough that you will have confidence in him? Does he conduct himself professionally on the phone?
Local builders' association
You can call up your local tradesmen association and ask for a list of sunroom contractors. They may be categorized under carpenters, general builders, remodelers or something more broad so be sure to ask if they would have the skills necessary to put up your sunroom. Being members of a builders' association usually means they are reputable and subject to the governing rules of the group.
Word of mouth
Recommendations from friends are always helpful. Negative feedback is as useful as positive because you can avoid hiring someone who will cause unnecessary expense and disappointment. Ask around, especially if you have friends who've recently built their own sunroom or know someone who has. Still, just because he suited your friends, doesn't mean he'll suit you. Make an appointment to meet with the guy and see if you will feel comfortable with his services.
A sunroom contractor should be well-versed in the task. If he has no idea about zoning regulations or seems vague about erecting prefabricated sunrooms, then perhaps you should consider hiring someone else. He should have a good network of subcontractors such as electricians, glaziers and roof plumbers, depending on the kind of fit-out you require. Gather estimates from at least two builders but 3 or 4 would be better. Don't settle on the person you choose based purely on his price but also on the rapport you have, his professionalism and the estimated date for completion. This is a person you intend to put in charge of a medium to major home improvement so you'll want to be sure he's the right man for the job.