You want to be cautious about who you hire to remodel your kitchen. It’s especially important when you realize that 46% of remodeling work involves fixing errors made by other contractors! That means your kitchen could end up being remodeled twice, and you could be paying for it twice as well. Finding a contractor who can get the job done right the first time is crucial.
But how do you make sure you choose the right kitchen remodeling contractor?
With 46 years of experience remodeling kitchens in central Ohio, JSB Home Solutions has done it all—relocating kitchens, expanding them, remodeling them, and even fixing kitchens that other contractors botched. Over the years, we’ve learned how to identify experienced and reputable contractors. In this article, you'll find eight essential questions to ask any kitchen contractor to ensure you have the information you need to select the right one for your project. If a company you’re considering can’t or won’t answer these questions, it’s time to cross them off your list and move on.
Table of Contents:
- What Kitchen Services Do You Offer?
- Can I See Examples of Your Completed Kitchen Projects?
- What Are Your Lead Times, Project Timelines, and Scheduling Constraints?
- How Do I Pay for My Kitchen Remodel with You?
- How Will We Communicate Throughout My Kitchen Remodel?
- Do I Need Kitchen Remodel Permits or Inspections?
- Do You Work with Subcontractors for Kitchen Remodels?
- Can You Provide Proof that You Are Currently Licensed and Insured as a Kitchen Contractor?
1. What Kitchen Services Do You Offer?
The first thing to ask a kitchen remodeler is, "Can you handle the specific job I need done?" Different remodelers have different approaches to kitchen remodeling. Some contractors focus on minor updates, while others will replace old materials with upgraded ones, keeping the same basic layout. There are also those who specialize in full remodels or additions, which might involve removing walls, relocating plumbing, or expanding the kitchen area. For instance, if you’re planning to knock down a wall to open up your kitchen, make sure the contractor you’re interviewing is equipped to handle that.
2. Can I See Examples of Your Completed Kitchen Projects?
When talking to potential contractors, be sure to ask for examples of their previous projects. This will give you a sense of the styles and quality of work they can deliver. It’s also a good idea to clarify what parts of the kitchen project they handled versus what was pre-existing. You can explore our kitchen project galleries to see what you can learn from completed work.
In addition to looking at photos, check out client testimonials online. Google reviews are a solid place to start. This will help you verify that the contractor’s claims align with their customers' experiences. Hearing directly from past clients is always more reliable than just taking the contractor’s word for it.
3. What Are Your Lead Times, Project Timelines, and Scheduling Constraints?
Contractors should be able to provide you with a lead time, which is the period between signing the contract and when construction begins. This time is used for tasks like finalizing selections, taking precise measurements, ordering materials, and ensuring everything is ready at the job site.
They should also be able to provide an estimated timeline for your kitchen project, indicating how long the kitchen will be under construction. This is crucial for understanding how long your kitchen will be out of use.
Make sure to communicate any specific time constraints you have for the project. For example, if you’re hosting an event in a few months and need the kitchen completed by then, or if you prefer to start the project after the holidays, let the contractor know. This will help you determine whether the contractor’s schedule aligns with yours.
Setting realistic expectations for your kitchen remodel timeline can help you avoid unnecessary stress once the work begins.
4. How Do I Pay for My Kitchen Remodel with You?
There are various ways to pay for your kitchen renovation, and each contractor should provide you with their available options. Regardless of the payment method, make sure to get the payment plan and quote in writing for future reference.
Here’s an example of the payment options and details a contractor should be able to provide:
Payment Plans
With JSB, you can pay directly using cash, check, or credit card in four interest-free installments.
- 30% Upfront: This is due when you sign the contract. It serves as your deposit and reserves your spot on our installation schedule. It also allows us to order materials so they’re ready when the project starts.
- 30% at Project Start: The second installment is due when construction on your kitchen begins.
- 30% at Substantial Completion of Your Project: This payment is due when all major tasks are done. There might be minor items left, like installing cabinet handles or connecting appliances, but the main parts of the kitchen project will be finished.
- 10% at Final Walkthrough: The final payment is due at the walkthrough, where we ensure all work is completed, and your kitchen is ready for use.
Financing Options
If you prefer to finance your kitchen remodel, JSB partners with Upgrade to offer financing options. We provide two types of plans through Upgrade. You can read more about financing your remodel on our blog.
- 0% Interest with Monthly Payments: This plan offers no interest with higher monthly payments over a period of 6 months to 5 years.
- Fixed Interest Rates with Low Monthly Payments: This plan features low-interest rates with lower monthly payments spread over 5 to 15 years.
5. How Will We Communicate Throughout My Kitchen Remodel?
Phone calls, texts, and emails are the most common ways you’ll stay in touch with your kitchen contractor during the project. It’s crucial to know how you’ll communicate with them, so you can ask questions and receive updates. At JSB, we keep written records of all plans, designs, and contracts. Once construction starts, we’ll use your preferred communication method. If you prefer phone calls, we’ll call you. If you’d rather receive texts to read at your convenience, we’ll text you.
Some contractors use apps or websites like Buildertrend to manage communication, keep everyone on track, and stay on schedule. You’d receive personal login information to view project details and communicate directly with your contractor. This method is common in design-build projects that last several months and involve many tasks and team members.
6. Do I Need Kitchen Remodel Permits or Inspections?
Certain kitchen remodel projects will require permits or inspections before work begins. This is typically necessary if you’re making significant changes to the kitchen layout that involve plumbing or electrical work. Contractors should handle obtaining permits and scheduling inspections as part of the remodeling process. These should be included in your overall kitchen remodel cost.
7. Do You Work with Subcontractors for Kitchen Remodels?
Subcontractors, or “subs,” are sometimes hired by kitchen remodeling companies, known as general contractors, to manage specific tasks or even the entire project. However, if not properly managed, subcontractors can introduce uncertainty and potential quality control issues.
When speaking with your kitchen contractor, ask whether they use their own employees or subcontractors for the work. If subcontractors are involved, inquire about how the contractor plans to manage and mitigate the common challenges associated with subcontractors.
8. Can You Provide Proof that You Are Currently Licensed and Insured as a Kitchen Contractor?
It’s essential to ensure that your kitchen contractor holds a current contractor's license, liability insurance, and workers' compensation insurance for two key reasons. First, a contractor's license indicates that they’ve been trained and know how to properly complete a kitchen remodel according to building codes and industry best practices. Second, liability and workers' compensation insurance protect you and your home in case of any accidents or injuries on the job.
Now That I Know What to Ask Kitchen Remodelers, What Do I Do Next?
Allowing someone to come into your home and remodel your kitchen is a big decision. The most challenging and important step in your kitchen remodel is selecting the right contractor—someone who will treat your home with care and deliver top-quality results at a fair price the first time.
As you interview contractors, it’s important to organize their information so you can compare them effectively. Download our Remodeling Company Comparison Worksheet to help with this process. The first page summarizes the topics and questions discussed in this article that you should cover with each contractor you interview. The second page lets you compile all their answers in one place for easy review.
One final tip when interviewing kitchen remodelers: trust your instincts. If you feel uneasy, unheard, or pressured to make a quick decision, consider finding a different contractor. Choose someone who answers all your questions, gives you space to make decisions, and provides peace of mind that your kitchen remodel is in good hands. You’ll be well on your way to creating your dream kitchen in no time!
