Finding a reliable contractor can be challenging, but there are several ways to navigate it. One option is to ask for referrals from other property managers, agents, or homeowners who have had work done recently. Word-of-mouth referrals can be especially valuable because they typically come from people who have firsthand experience working with a contractor. Another option is to search online, using Safe Contractor / CHAS etc. These sites can provide valuable information about a contractor’s reputation, previous work, and client feedback.
Once you have identified potential contractors, it’s important to speak with them to assess their experience, proof of qualifications, and assess their systems, processes and working practices. You should also ask for references and follow up with those references to get a sense of the contractor’s work quality and reliability.
When it comes to keeping contractors, communication is key. Be clear about your expectations and timelines, and make sure to stay in touch regularly throughout the project. This can help ensure that any issues are identified and addressed quickly, before they become bigger problems.
To maintain a positive relationship with your contractors, it’s important to pay within agreed payment terms, provide clear and concise instructions, and offer feedback on their work. By doing so, you can help build a strong, mutually beneficial relationship with your contractors that will serve you well for years to come.
We have put together a guide for choosing a reputable contractor with a detailed skills matrix for further information