1. They’ve Got Industry Knowledge
Contractors know how to plan a project from start to finish. You’ll end up with expert help from the get-go, so you don’t have to waste time looking at which materials to use or where to find the best prices. Got ideas for your own projects? Contractors are there to tell you how feasible it is, how much it will cost, and they may be able to come up with solutions you haven’t heard of.
2. They’ve Got Industry Connections
Most big home improvement projects require sub-contractors, since specialized knowledge is usually needed to perform certain tasks. Large renovations can need plumbers, electricians, flooring specialists, roofers, landscapers, and so on. Contractors know the best sub-contractors to hire, how much to pay them, and when they are needed. Additionally, contractors will have industry connections that gives them access to materials and equipment that the public just can’t get.
3. They’re Fast
Unless you’re an expert in all the specialties you’ll need to know to complete your project, doing it yourself can take a very, very long time. Even if you sub-contract specialized services yourself, doing your own home improvement can take a significant chunk of spare time. Contractors give you back that free time and complete projects much faster than do-it-yourselfers could. Here’s how the process usually works:
- Phone interview
- In-person consultation
- Estimate, which includes time frame and cost quote
- Contractor does the work
- Project passes regulation inspection, if necessary
4. They Get Your Renovation to Pass Inspection
Some home improvement projects require permits, licensing, and must pass inspections upon completion. Even seemingly small projects might need inspection, and houses that don’t have the right paperwork can run into problems. If you plan on selling your house, for instance, and fail to get the proper building permit, the sale may be on thin ice. In a worst case scenario, a sale could fall through and force you to hire an inspector.
Contractors are familiar with building codes and know beforehand how to design a project so that it will pass a post-renovation inspection. In the unlikely event that a contractor’s work fails an inspection, most have guarantees in place and will fix the work free of charge.
5. They Know the Best Ways to Add Value to Your Home
Not all renovation projects add the same amount of value to a home. Though some people simply want to add more space, redecorate, or redesign parts of their house, improving resale value is a major consideration for many other homeowners. Kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor renovation projects often improve the resale value, for instance, because these are the first parts of the house that potential buyers will look at. If this is a consideration for you, discuss the options with your contractor and real estate agent.
Regardless of the type of home improvement project you’re considering, hiring a contractor can save you a lot of time, money, and stress. You won’t have to spend your own free time researching building codes, material costs, or any of the specialized disciplines that are often necessary for these projects.
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