How To Pick A Contractor

The first step in picking a contractor is to figure our what type of contractor you need. You can hire one general contractor to do your remodeling, renovation or new home construction project, or you can hire several sub-contractors who specialize in the different parts of the project.

Regardless of who you choose you should follow these rules.

First make sure they are licensed and insured and ask them to provide documentation you can verify. A reputable contractor will have no problem providing you with copies of these documents.

Next ask for several client references and do not be afraid to call and ask questions like did the contractor complete the construction project on time and within the budget, did it meet your expectations, how neat were they in your home, did the workers show up when expected, etc. If possible ask if you can see the finished home remodeling or renovation work the contractor did.

Call the better business bureau and see if there are any complaints filed against the contractor. Visit http://www.bbb.org for more information

Request a written estimate. Any contractor who does not provide you with a written estimate should be crossed off your list. Get at least three estimates and then compare prices with what is included. Remember the lowest bidder is not always the best. Always ask what type of material they use and where they are getting it from. Compare apples to apples and make sure you are getting quality materials.

Sign a written contract. The contract should clearly state all the steps the contractor will take from beginning to end of your job, what supplies and material types are included, the payment schedule and the time line for the project.

Ask if they a member of NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry). Nari is a not-for-profit trade association with more than 50 years of industry experience and is dedicated to enhancing the professionalism of the construction industry and serving as an ally to the homeowner.

Visit http://www.nari.org to learn more about NARI

Visit http://www.nari-ny.org for Information on the NYC / Long Island Chapter of NARI

Also check online to read long island contractors reviews from customers that have used them. Sites such as Find A Pro and Angies List are excellent resources.

So whether you want to do a kitchen remodel, bathroom remodel, dormer or a build a new home, by doing research and comparing contractors and materials you should be able to find a reputable contractor.

Barry Goggin Takes Oath as President of Local NARI Chapter

It was quite an auspicious moment for Barry Goggin, the new president of the Long Island chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

Bill Carter, the national president of NARI, had flown from California to LaGuardia Airport where he was picked up by Renee Rewiski, the national chairwoman of the association who lives i New Jersey. They arrived in a downpour just before the ceremonies for the swearing-in and the awards presentation took place.

"It made the evening more special," said Goggin. They added quite a bit of ceremony. It meant a lot to all of us."

Barry Goggin Construction started in 1978 doing small repairs and projects such as windows and doors. Eventually jobs got larger like extensions, dormers, full bathroom remodeling and kitchen remodeling and decks.

"In 1985 I constructed my first custom home from the ground up. I have constructed five homes over the past 31 years, but concentrated on renovations and remodeling."

"As far as employees, I have always kept the company small with two or three full time carpenters at a time and a part time office staff." he said.

In 2002, he moved to a larger office space in Ronkonkoma, NY centrally located on Long Island for easy access to any job.

I still do all the selling and business development myself," he said.

I have kept the same name and home improvement license for the past thirty one years, which is unprecedented in this industry. My goal was never to be one of the biggest companies on Long Island but to be one of the best Long Island Contractors.

"I have been a NARI member since 1989. I have always been a strong supporter of the organization because of its dedication to promoting honesty and ethical conduct within the industry."

"I became a Certified Remodeler in 1995 and a Certified Kitchen Remodeler in 2009. My business has thrived because of my involvement with NARI because homeowners are recognizing NARI as a source of reliable contractors. Besides my own good reputation in this field, NARI also ensures homeowners they are getting better service with a NARI member," he said.

"I have won eleven local contractor of the year awards, eight regional contractor of the year awards, one National Contractor of the year award and was the recipient of the Big50 award by Remodeling Magazine in 2006." he said.

"My goal as president will be to continue the efforts of the NARI office in getting more contractors to join, making the remodeling process better for the homeowners and to make the homeowners aware that NARI exists and what we are all about," he added.

Original Article Written By Denis Sheahan