Trusted Contractors

Trusted Contractors and Handypersons

We highly recommend the wonderful companies and people below based on our past experiences and those of our trusted friends and clients.  It has been built over many years and is continually updated to reflect recent performance.  Of course, companies and people change (for better or worse),  so we can not be held responsible if your project does meet the high standards we expect.

PLEASE give us a shout anytime with your feedback (good or bad) or names to add to the list from any great experiences you have had.

Following the list, check out 12 tips to help you avoid costly mistakes when choosing and working with contractors and builders.

Handyperson / General / Windows 

HVAC

Movers

Tuckpointing / Mason

Electrician

Tile / General Remodeling

Landscape / French Drains

Hardwood Floors

Wood Window / Glass Restoration

Chimney

Gutters

Painters - these have wood rot crews as well

Tree Removal Services

Termite / Pest Control

Sewer Lines / Plumbing Repairs

Garage Construction

Roofers

Sidewalks / Garage Floors / Driveways (concrete)

Home/Auto Insurance Broker

Disclaimer-  This is a live document in which new recommendations will be added and current ones may be removed if a poor review is communicated to my clients or team.  Please be advised that KChomehub cannot be held liable or responsible for any event that takes place with the contractors referred to above.  KCHomehub does not guarantee the performance of contractors and cannot be held responsible for damages or liability of work performed by those contractors.  Choosing a contractor is done at the risk of the homeowner.

Here are 12 tips to help you avoid costly mistakes when choosing and working with contractors and builders

1. Beware of disaster chasers

In the wake of a natural disaster, it's common for contractors to roll into the area, looking to capitalize on widespread home damage. While many of these companies are reputable, others are fly-by-night operations lacking the qualifications to do the job right. The Better Business Bureau warns against door-to-door contractors who use high-pressure sales tactics or offer you unbelievable deals.

2. Seek referrals

Talk to friends who have used building contractors in your area. Ask your county's building inspector for recommendations. You can also check for reputable local contractors with the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, National Association of Home Builders or Better Business Bureau.

3. Check credentials

Call your local Better Business Bureau to find out how long a company has been in business. Google the name of the company's owner; sometimes, unscrupulous contractors will go out of business and then start back up under a new company name. If your state requires contractors to be licensed, registered, or bonded, contact the appropriate regulatory agency to make sure the person you choose meets the requirements.

4. Visit the current job sites of a builder or contractor.

Are they clean? How do workers handle tools and materials? Are dust covers used to protect belongings? Remember, they'll work the same way on your turf. While you're at it, visit the contractor's permanent office to make sure it's equally professional.

5. Ask contractors to provide their insurance information

Companies should carry workers' compensation, property damage, and personal liability insurance. Ask for the documents, and look for expiration dates when they come to do your bid -- you don't want coverage to expire before your project is done.

6. Don't forget the subcontractors

General contractors may hire other specialized companies, called subcontractors, to work for them. If so, make sure they, too, have all the necessary licenses and insurance. And have your contractor specify in the work contract whom they will hire as subcontractors.

7. Get estimates in writing

Get bids from at least three reputable contractors. If prices differ wildly, find out why and don't automatically choose the lowest price. Sometimes you get what you pay for: Radically cheaper bids might mean the contractor will use cheaper materials, hire fewer workers, and put a lower priority on repairing your home.

8. Understand the timing

Ask how soon the work can begin. Especially after a major disaster, some contractors might be booked solid and unable to start on your project until months later. On the bright side, this could be a sign of a quality contractor who is in high demand. If a contractor can start tomorrow, there might be a reason that the business has no other customers.

9. Seal deals in writing, too

Make sure the start and completion dates, project scope, materials, costs, payment schedule, and all promises are specified in the contract.

10. Read and understand the work contract

Don't assume anything. If you're unsure about the jargon, or any of the wording, let an attorney review the contract for you.

11. Don't pay too much upfront

Typically, contractors will ask for 20%-30% before work begins. If they ask for much more, walk away. And whatever you do, don't pay the final installment until all work is completed to your satisfaction.

12. Never pay in cash

Use a credit card or check, and keep receipts. That way, you have proof of payment all along the way.