Residential architecture and construction is not always a clean, neat operation. There will arise conflicts between Design and Build considerations. Individual differences between participants will create competing values and concerns. Dissimilar sensibilities impose varying standards for Quality Control. And, when you're told by a contractor, "I'll be right over." Or, a supplier says, "It'll be there by Friday." What does this really mean?

Choosing the Right Contractor

 Locating a qualified contractor can be an arduous task but the reward for perseverance is the successful completion of a project with someone you know and trust. This list of ways to qualify a contractor is comprehensive and may seem overwhelming but it's the first step toward quality control. Check on these items before they're hired.....

• License and Registration Number
• Worker's Compensation Insurance
• Bond and Liability Insurance
• Number of years in business
• References
• Financial stability
• Stable crew
• Credit standing with suppliers
• Cost consciousness
• Fair prices and payment schedule
• Quality of rough work
• Quality of finish work
• Awareness of material waste
• Market Niche: custom, spec, or service
• Adequate crew for size of job
• Adequate supervision for size of job
• Do they begin on schedule?
• Do they end on schedule?
• Clean-up procedures
• Success with inspections
• Cooperation with other trades
• Relationship between lead and crew
• Relationship with client
• Responsiveness to problems
• Availability: Answering machine, Voice mail, Email, Beeper
• Change Order practices
• Promptness on callbacks
• Relationship to reference
• Will they sign a Lien Waiver?
• Will they accept a dual-signee check?
• Will the proposal be based on complete drawings and specifications?

Selecting the Right Supplier

When selecting a supplier consider:

• Is their location near your site?
• Are you dealing directly with the manufacturer or distributor?
• How can you limit the number of suppliers with whom you deal?
• Are you able to open a builder account?
• What's the size of the company?
• What's the condition of the supplier's yard/warehouse/shop?
• Can you sense turnover rate of sales staff?
• What is the quality range of products being sold in store?
• What type of warranty/guarantee is being offered?
• Will installation instructions be immediately available?
• Who provides customer service: supplier or manufacturer?
• Can unused material be returned for a credit?
• How do costs compare to the competition?
• Are discounts offered for early payments?
• Is itemized billing offered?
• Does the supplier reference you to good installers?
• Are the installers independent contractors or employees?
• Who else shops at this business?
• Who makes the delivery? Is there an extra charge?
• Who returns damaged goods?
• What is the supplier's system for quality control?
• Is a standard form used by supplier with a purchase agreement written on the backside in tiny print? What does it say?