With the aftermath of Hurricane Ike many Houston area homes are in dire need of repair. It can not be overstated that you must take precautions to prevent being taken advantage of by unethical contractors. According to Texas state law a “builder or remodeler may not construct new homes or engage in remodeling projects that change the living area of the home or that cost more than $10,000 for interior renovations in Texas without first registering with the commission“. The review of the builder or remodeler registration application includes a background check for the designated individual who serves as the registered agent for the builder or remodeler.

Houston Home Repair and Contractor Interview Questions

While some areas of Houston have many contractors providing services, some areas have limited resources and you have to basically take the first contractor that comes by. If you do have the luxury of choosing who will make the repairs of your Houston home remember the scope or scale of your repairs needed to your Houston home could determine which size contractor company best fit for your needs. Some Houston homeowners require the resources of a large company while others may prefer the intimate relationship of working with a smaller contractor who offers a personal touch.

Consider asking your contractor the following questions:

• Does the contractor consistently repair similar homes in your price range and square footage?
• Does the contractor truly understand your needs for the repairs that must be completed for your Houston home?
• Is the contractor willing to allow those you retain on your behalf to oversee the repairs of your Houston home?

Your Houston Contractor’s Reputation?

Here are a few ways to protect yourself and your Houston home from unscrupulous contractors who are seeking to take advantage of your dire situation. We suggest you consider the following tips:

1. Does the Houston contractor/remodeler belong to the local, regional and national contractor/homebuilder association?
2. How long has the Houston contractor been in business?
3. Are they Houston-based fro better communications?
4. Confirm no complaints have been registered against the contractor with the Better Business Bureau.
5. What is the experience level for those principal individuals who will be performing the repairs of your Houston home?
6. Does the contractor hire subcontractors? If so, are the “subs” competent, knowledgeable and skilled craftsmen?
7. Does the contractor take care to protect your trees, shrubs and other precious natural resources?

Consider Your Contractor’s Ability to Effectively Communicate

• Does the contractor communicate effectively with clients during the repair process?
• How often will the contractor commit to communicate with you?
• Are you comfortable with the frequency of communication your contractor will commit to deliver?
• What communication tools will the contractor use to communicate during the process? (Phone calls-faxes-text message-Internet construction process tracker-emails)
• If you currently living away from your Houston home due to storm damage, what will the contractor do to communicate effectively while you are out of Houston home?

Contracts for Performance

• Do not rely on “word of mouth contracts”
• Put everything in writing!
• Never pay the full amount of repairs upfront and pay the final bill only when the work has been satisfactorily completed.
• Be sure to set clear expectations what you want including clear expectations of price, delivery and all terms
• If you have multiple contractors “bidding” on your home repairs, remember the lowest bid does not necessarily represent the best contractor.
• Inquire how the contractor will stand behind their work. Do they offer any warranty on their work and that of their subcontractors.
• What guarantees of quality and workmanship does the contractor offer?

Helping You Avoid Rip-off Artist

These contractor interview questions should help you avoid getting ripped off when selecting the right Houston contractor who make the much needed repairs to your Houston area home.

If you have recently had repairs completed to your Houston home by a contractor, what other questions would you add to this list?

I look forward to your feedback!