How to Find the Best Qualified Remodeling Professionals for Your Home or Business

Bathroom Remodeling Services in Madison
If you’re considering a remodeling project, you’ve probably realized you have a lot of decisions to make. One of the most important is who will be doing the work.

When choosing a professional for your next project, keep in mind that every house is unique and what works for one homeowner may not suit another. What’s right for you might not be right for your neighbor or friend in the area, but here are some tips to help find the best remodeling professional.

Make sure they’re actually a local company

Having a local contractor is important for several reasons…

First, it’s more likely that the contractor will stay in business. When you hire someone who lives in your area, they’re less likely to disappear or go out of business before completing their work on your home or business.

Second, when working on an older home or building that’s been around for 100 years or more, there may be local building codes and regulations that are different from other parts of the country.

Third, if you need materials that aren’t available locally, like a specialty brick, then having access to those materials will make things easier and quicker while they’re doing their job.

Always ask for references!

While you know you should always ask for references, doing so makes sure the contractor is willing to provide them. If they aren’t willing to share any, it could be a red flag they aren’t good at their job or that there’s something shady going on. You can also use Yelp or Angie’s List to see what other people say about your potential contractor.

You should also ask for references from other professionals in the industry and local organizations like NARI (National Association of Remodeling Industry), which we’ll discuss more in a minute.

Ask about their qualifications, certifications, and memberships

When it comes to finding the best service providers in the area, it’s important you know what makes someone qualified to do the job. Ask about memberships with professional organizations, and make sure they have insurance coverage.

Remember, there are many things that can go wrong when hiring a contractor for your home or business, and being able to identify the professionals who have been properly trained and certified can help protect you from any potential problems down the road.

Ask a potential professional about their work experience

When you’re in the market for a remodeling professional, it’s important to ask them about their background and experience.

Here are some things to ask them:

  • How long have they been in the industry?
  • What projects have they worked on?
  • What is their specialty?

Check for industry certification and accreditation

Remodeling is a large investment, you need to know the remodelers you hire are held to the highest standards.

So how do you know if you’re hiring a qualified contractor?

Taking the time to check for industry certification and accreditation is a great way to start.

NARI (the National Association of the Remodeling Industry) provides education, training, and standards for remodeling professionals. Their membership includes thousands of contractors across North America—all of whom have proven their knowledge and skills in the field by passing an extensive written exam on everything from building codes to building science.

What does NARI certified mean?

NARI certified professionals are held to high standards. NARI established a code of ethics for remodelers. This code applies across all trades and within each trade, and requires professionals to uphold certain standards of integrity and excellence.

A NARI Certified Professional designation is recognized as a mark of quality within both residential and commercial remodeling circles. It assures customers that the contractor has demonstrated both technical expertise and business acumen through a rigorous assessment process which includes continuing education requirements every five years.

When was NARI established?

NARI’s beginnings go back to 1935, when the North East Roofing, Siding and Insulation Contractors Association (NERSICA) was created by an act of Congress. In 1956, President Eisenhower established Operation Home Improvement, a nationwide effort emphasizing the rehabilitation of existing housing rather than new construction. The National Home Improvement Council (N.H.I.C.) emerged from this effort, which in 1982, became NARI. 

Expert tip: Attend remodeling expos in your area

In order to find the best qualified remodeling professionals for your home or business, going to expos in your area will get you close to them, without the pressure. These events are a great way to meet local professionals and learn about new products and services that can help you with your renovation project.

You’ll also be able to meet other homeowners who have had similar experiences with their renovation projects, which can help you feel more confident and relaxed about moving forward on any updates that need to happen at your property.

Look for W.E. Davies + Sons Remodeling, Inc., a full-service residential remodeling company based in Madison, WI at the National Association of Home Builders (NARI) Remodeling Expo being held January 28th and 29th at the Madison Marriott West.

Finally… just relax

With the right kind of professional, you can enjoy your new home or business.

We hope these tips will help you find the right person for your project!

W.E. Davies Remodeling specializes in kitchen, bathroom, and home remodeling and provides services across Madison, Wisconsin.

Transform Your Home with W.E. Davies Remodeling.
Call: 608-222-6609

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