7 Questions You Should Ask Any Contractor

For a big and potentially costly project like a concrete construction job, you want to be sure that you can trust the contractor you choose. A big step in this direction is to know what fundamental questions to ask and what answers are satisfactory.

With that in mind, here are the 7 questions you should ask any contractor:

How much experience do you have?

A good indicator of the professionalism, skill, and reliability of a concrete contractor is how long they have been in business. Just like in any line of work, you get better with time and experience. Don’t just focus on how long they have been providing services, but also look at what kind of projects they have undertaken and in which areas and conditions.

Do you have a client references/photographs showing your previous projects?

Any contractor can promise you the world, however, real-world examples of their work don’t lie. A trustworthy and quality contractor won’t hesitate to show off completed projects or display feedback from past clients. If a contractor doesn’t have these, try looking for past experiences from clients in online forums, etc.

Do you hire subcontractors or complete the work yourself?

Some contractors will try to take shortcuts by outsourcing some of the work to others. This isn’t ideal as it can easily lead to miscommunication, inconsistent results, and delays. Not to mention the fact that it will probably end up costing you more money. Any good contractor will have faith in their own skills and tackle the job from start to finish.

Do you handle demolition and removal of debris?

You want your concrete contractor to take as many potential headaches and frustrations out of your concrete construction project as possible. If you need to hire a separate contractor to handle the demolition and removal of debris, this could lead to extra costs, delays, and a low-quality job. You also want to know that the removal is done thoroughly and responsibly.

Do you provide clients with a contract to guarantee work in writing?

The first sign that you should be cautious of a contractor is if they are hesitant to provide you with a black-and-white contract. Make sure that the contract clearly explains the responsibilities and expectations of both the contractor and you, the client. It should clearly define the scope of work and who is responsible for any delays or increases in cost.

What type of concrete and reinforcement do you use?

Not all concrete is of the same quality. Try and find out what brand/supplier they use. Also, question them regarding reinforcement. A knowledgeable contractor should be able to explain whether, and if, it’s necessary for your project. Rebar or steel mesh are two widely used types of reinforcement. You may also want to ask whether they have any anti-cracking strategies or measures in place.

Do you have the necessary certifications/paperwork?

A contractor needs to have a General Contractor certification to be approved to provide concrete construction services. If they have any other qualifications or certifications, that’s even better. A contractor should also be insured to protect both themselves and their clients. A decent contractor should also be able to tell you about permit requirements in Toronto.

At Concrete Contractors Toronto we value honesty and transparency

Have any more questions? We are always ready to provide you with the information you need to feel at ease when hiring us for your project. Don’t hesitate to contact us and we will happily answer these essential questions and any others you might have.