How do you find home contractors?

Submitted by Phuntzilla t3_11e7sxh in washingtondc

Title says it. I’ve got a go-to guy who’s been great for smaller stuff, but can’t accommodate a major renovation we had planned that I’m nervous about trusting to a random contractor without some way to check their reputation.

Hearing places like Angie’s List are just pay to play scams, I’m wondering if you all had any tips beyond just word of mouth.

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run_eat_rep3at t1_jacqza5 wrote

Did a big renovation a few years ago and this was really tough. Called a few places that had good reviews online but the prices were either crazy high or the contractor ghosted after quoting.

Ended up finding my contractor via word of mouth and he is awesome - happy to recommend and share some photos via DM if you're looking for recs.

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jwrbusiness t1_jacsk3u wrote

I know in prince william county there is a way to see who is requesting the most permits in the line of work you’re seeking. That’s how a customer found me and told me that. And that may be a good way to see who is a good candidate.

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GenericReditAccount t1_jad2ang wrote

If you know any realtors in the area, ask them. They often keep a list for their own professional use and referrals.

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Former-Florida-Woman t1_jacrscl wrote

If you know any, or have friends who have used them, interior designers usually keep a list of trusted contractors. We just remodeled our basement and were very happy with our contractor. PM me if you’d like details.

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gordo0620 t1_jact0fa wrote

Thumbtack. I moved just over a year ago and found painters, floor installers, and my inspector on Thumbtack. Reviews are posted and those contractors I selected did great work at reasonable rates.

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foodpig1 t1_jacqyuy wrote

Ask contractors/handyman that you like if they know anybody in different industries.

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kirkl3s t1_jacxkhw wrote

Try your realtor - ours is a great resource for this kinda stuff.

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TravelerMSY t1_jadjoyw wrote

Word of mouth is best, but the most established and reliable general contractors with an actual company and office, are also going to be the most expensive.

You can also keep an eye out for signs on jobs in your neighborhood, then get their contact info and speak with them.

The reputation thing is tough. Most homeowners end up not liking their contractor very much even if they ultimately did a great job :(

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the__itis t1_jad3gde wrote

Task Rabbit

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ta112233 t1_jadfwr8 wrote

Ask your neighborhood listserv for recommendations

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