IMPORTANT INFO
BENEFIT OF HIRING A LICENSED CONTRACTOR
Reputation
One way to judge an Arizona home improvement company is to find out what others who deal with them have to say. A good reputation isn’t built overnight—it is earned through years of rendering good service, treating people right, doing what you say you’ll do, going the extra mile, and respecting customers. Ask for the following items to see how you can accurately judge the reputation of any contractor.
What To Look For: BBB Letter
Why It's Important: You need to go further than just checking a contractor’s standing with the BBB. Remember, many contractors shut down and open under new names year after year. So check to see how long they’ve been a member, and ask to see a written statement about BBB arbitration on the contractor’s behalf. This means that if complaints arise, the contractor agrees that the BBB’s judgment is binding and must perform accordingly. Without this agreement, you have no recourse.
Reputation - Memberships
What To Look For: Chamber of Commerce & Other Memberships
Why It's Important: Any reputable company will be a member of at least their local Chamber of Commerce...and often multiple Chambers. You may want to call the Chamber to make sure the membership is current. Belonging to trade associations implies some quality and ethical integrity on the part of the contractor. Certificates for associations like NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) and other specialty associations should be presented.
Stability - Insurance Certificate
What To Look For: Proof of Insurance.
Why It's Important: You need to know if you contractor carries general liability insurance for both Arizona commercial and residential projects. A sizable contractor will carry no less than $500,000… and usually around $1,000,000 of coverage. If your contractor’s insurance policy can’t cover potential damages, then the contractor would be personally liable. If he cannot cover the damages himself, you will again have no legal recourse and will end up paying for any possible damages or injuries yourself. Over half of contractors are not financially stable… and don’t carry proper insurance coverage to protect you against losses. For Larger projects, it would be reasonable to ask your contractor for bank references.
Professionalism
A good home improvement company doesn’t just do good work. They also understand that when dealing with customers, it’s oftentimes the little things that make a big difference. You should find a contractor that shows you respect by the way they treat you, the way they look, the way they treat your property, and how they pay attention to details. Check any contractor you’re considering using against these standards of professionalism:
What does NARI Membership mean to contractors?
NARI contractor members are set apart from the rest of the pack, and since NARI members voluntarily follow a strict Code of Ethics, contractors increase their credibility with membership. As a NARI member, contractors have the opportunity to enrich their knowledge with cutting edge educational opportunities and certifications. They have unlimited use of the NARI logo, which is promoted nationwide in a number of consumer media outlets. They are easy for consumers to find on the NARI website, and they have access to leads through the NARI website. They have the opportunity to enrich their own clients’ knowledge of the remodeling process through NARI’s Homeowners Guide online, and have access to discounted consumer marketing tools and educational materials in the NARI Store. Members have access to NARI’s prestigious Contractor of the Year (CotY) Awards, which gains their company incredible publicity and credibility in the marketplace. They have the opportunity to reduce the cost of doing business, as well, with access to a health benefits program and group purchasing discount programs
What does NARI Membership mean to homeowners?
The goal of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is to help homeowners find the right professional partner to do their Arizona remodeling. Whether it is updating a kitchen to make it more efficient, turning an ordinary bathroom into a haven of rest and relaxation, or adding a room to meet the needs of a growing family, NARI wants each homeowner to get the maximum value or enjoyment for the dollars they invest in their remodeling.
NARI membership means that a professional is a full-time, dedicated remodeling professional. NARI membership offers this assurance through an extensive screening process and requirement of its members to follow a strict Code of Ethics.
Homeowners can be assured that any time they hire a NARI member, they are hiring an individual who has made a strong commitment to the professionalism of the remodeling industry and to his or her business.
NARI represents professional Arizona remodeling contractors, product manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, trade publications, utilities and lending institutions. The association is committed to enhancing the professionalism of the remodeling industry and serving as an ally to homeowners.
NARI members have access to the latest information in the industry through publications, educational programs, educational seminars and conferences. The NARI professional remodeler has pledged to uphold the association’s strict Code of Ethics and is dedicated to the professionalism and integrity of the remodeling industry.
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