Time for a new deck or backyard patio?
Since you are way to busy to DIY, you have done your research online and found a bunch of providers that could do the installation. But before hiring a contractor, you want to be aware of the basics to understand the process. So, here is some input: During the interview process, these are the questions that you should ask a prospect. They will help you hire the right contractor for your project.
1. Do you have samples of your work, and previous customers that I can contact?
This is one of the most important questions that you can ask a patio contractor because it will tell you a few things about the contractor right out of the gate. If the contractor has no pictures of previous work, then he was not prepared for the interview. The contractor should have a list of a few clients that have agreed to be contacted. He should have all that information on hand if he is serious about getting your business.
2. Do you have insurance in case of worker injury and to cover any accidents to my property?
Another important question since you do not want a worker hurt on your property while on the job trying to receive compensation from you. You do not want to be left with damage to your home after work is done on your patio either. The contractor’s insurance should cover accidents and damage to your property from machines like jackhammers or large concrete mixers.
3. How long will this project take, and will you have our agreement written up in a contract?
Any guarantees made by the contractor should be in writing. Contractors have more than one client. Don’t be the one he ignores to complete another job. You should agree on a time line for the project and whether payments should be staggered during completion. The contract should have project price, payment schedule and any warranties.
4. Do you have an on-site supervisor?
If the contractor is the owner of the business, most likely he will not be the one on-site overseeing his workers and subcontractors. There should be a supervisor that is on-site for most of the project. Beforehand, it should be clear whether you will allow workers into your home to use your facilities. Discussing this with the contractor will ensure that the project runs smoothly.
5. What kind of materials will you be using on my project?
Patio work may be beyond your understanding, but research to make sure the materials are suitable for the job being done. The contractor shouldn’t be using inferior materials to cut costs. When he lists the kinds of materials that you need, write them down and research to find out if those materials are correct. Concrete comes in different grades depending on the project. Your patio project won’t need a high-grade concrete. Protect yourself against contractors who are trying to hike up the price. Once you have hired a contractor, bring your list to the site and see that the workers are using what was quoted during the interview.
This article was written and kindly provided by the team at Great Aussie Patios. They’ve installed hundreds of outdoor patios across Perth. Visit their shop at 1/15 Alloa Road, Maddington or give them a call on +61 8 9493 7115 for a free quote within 3 days!
If you like the furniture in the photo, please leave us a message. We will expand our collection for next season and will have some exciting new outdoor dining furniture.
