By Mattias Järvegren
Utility Services Supervisor
As you plan your next home energy efficiency upgrade, be it new windows, upgrade insulation, or installing a heat pump or heat pump water heater, choosing the right contractor for the job is a critical first step in your planning process. You want to make sure you vet the quality of their work in advance, spell out in writing what work you want to be performed agree upon the scope of the project, and inquire whether the contractor is properly licensed and insured in case something goes wrong.
In order to help you make a good decision for you, I have put together a list of tips to help make this challenging decision process just a little bit easier.
Hire Local, Licensed Contractors Whenever Possible
Local contractors are easier to contact if problems develop with the work in the future, and they are more likely to be familiar with building codes in your area. Ask the contractor for their local, physical address. Be cautious of anyone who goes door-to-door or refuses to leave a contract overnight. Most of the contractors that are signed up on the District’s Participating Installers list have worked with us, and been a part of our community for many years - and plan on continuing to be a part of our community for many years to come. When you’re unsure of where to start, feel free to start with us.
Check Their Past Work
How has their work turned out in the past? Do they specialize in the kind of work you want done? Check references about the quality of their products, their workmanship, and their customer service. Inquire about their professional reputation and years in business with the Better Business Bureau. A contractor with more than 5 years of experience is preferable.
Get Multiple Estimates
Get multiple bids before making a decision, and talk to several contractors, and get written estimates from at least 3. Make sure you’re comparing apples to apples when you get multiple estimates. Look at building materials, work methods, timelines, and other factors that may vary by contractor. Be cautious of estimates that are too high or too low. When you are looking at different estimates, you should also feel free to call and talk to the Public Utility District’s (PUD) Utility Services staff. While we are not going to sway you toward a specific contractor, we can help you by having an objective conversation about what’s written on each contractor’s bids, so that you have a better understanding of what exactly each contractor is proposing that they do for you.
Take Your Time Making a Sound Decision
Don’t be pressured into making an immediate decision, particularly with regard to signing a contract. Be cautious when asked to pay a large deposit upfront. Make sure to read the fine print on all estimates and contracts. If you’re having emergency repairs done and don’t have time to thoroughly research a contractor, ask neighbors, family, or friends to see if they have had a good experience with an emergency services contractor.
Check Their Insurance & Bonding
Make sure the contractor is properly insured and bonded. Ask the contractor for a certificate of insurance (COI), which should provide the name of the insurance company, policy number, and policy limits the contractor carries. You can contact the insurance company directly to verify the coverage and make sure the policy is still in effect. Do not do business with a contractor who does not carry the appropriate insurance coverage. If the contractor is not insured, you may be liable for accidents that occur on your property. The PUD checks our contractor's licensing and bonding every month, so if you do decide to work with 1 of the contractors that have opted to be on the District’s Participating Installers you can rest easy and know that we have already done this for you.
Anticipate Delays
Delays happen, and may not be the fault of your contractor. In spite of the timeline outlined in your contract, circumstances such as weather may prevent the work from remaining on schedule. Be realistic and prepare to adjust your plans accordingly.
Keep a Job File
Keep your contract and all the supporting documents in 1 folder. Your file should also contain any change orders, plans and specifications, bills and invoices, canceled checks, and certificates of insurance, and any letters, notes, or correspondence with the contractor. While the District provides rebates and incentives to help pay for work that saves energy, we cannot guarantee any work and it is you who will choose and hire the contractor. Keeping documentation and records is just a good way to protect yourself in case something goes wrong.
If you are a licensed and bonded contractor interested in joining our team, please reach out to us for a contractor application.
If you have any questions regarding this article or if you would like to discuss any other energy-saving opportunities, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can reach us via the web, email Utility Services, and phone, at (360) 565-3249.