Choosing a concrete contractor in the bay area does not have to be a daunting task! As with any significant undertaking in life, information is key. Follow these five steps to start and finish your search for a concrete contractor who will provide you with clear communication, quality work, and lasting service.
As your very first step, take time to research concrete contractors in the bay area. This can be done with a simple Google search. As you research, keep note of names and companies which resurface often. Pay special attention to reviews to get an understanding of other customers’ experiences with the concrete contractors you are looking into. This will also give you more insight into the contractor or company’s reputation. Of course, nothing beats old fashioned word-of-mouth recommendations for local bay area contractors. Ask your family, friends, or colleagues who they may know locally and would suggest.
As you look for concrete contractors, identify those who have a proven track record in the industry. Often, experience speaks to a contractor’s expertise and their reliability. Take the extra step and view their website for pictures, or, ask for a portfolio to get a look at their past work. If it is within the realm of possibility, take time to visit locations of a contractor’s past work. This will give you a first-hand view of the quality and attention to detail you can expect. Finally, you can request references from previous clients. Ask references about their overall satisfaction and experience with the concrete contractor to find out if it will be a good fit for you. This is also a good time to pay attention to whether the communication you are receiving from a potential contractor or company is clear and prompt.
Once you have a short list of concrete contractors that you are interested in, make sure they are licensed and insured before you move forward in any business capacity. A contractor who holds a valid license will meet the required standards and regulations of the industry. To further protect yourself from any liabilities, be sure to ask for proof of insurance, including liability and workers’ compensation coverage. If a concrete contractor is unwilling or unable to provide these for you, it would be best for you to remove them from your list.
Request quotes from each licensed, ensured, and qualified concrete contractor from your list. Having at least three quotes will give you the information you need to compare the prices and services provided by each contractor, and ultimately, narrow down your search.
Remember, the cheapest contractor isn’t always the best choice for concrete work. You get what you pay for. Experience should always be a key consideration.
As you begin to move forward with your selected concrete contractor, be sure you have a written contract which outlines all details pertaining to the project. This will include the projected timeline and schedule to make sure it works for you and your specific needs. A contract will also include costs and specifications in relation to the job. This is an opportunity to ask about the quality of materials your contractor intends to use, ensuring the durability of the concrete work you receive. Additionally, check to see if the concrete contractor offers any warranty or guarantee for their work, as this can be written into the contract as well.
It is important that you as the customer receive quality work, as well as clear and prompt communication. Take the time to research and get to know potential concrete contractors and companies. Pay attention to who you feel comfortable and confident with as you move forward, and select a contractor who will provide you with a quality, long-lasting paving job!
