How to Find a Good Contractor (And Avoid Costly Mistakes!)
I have, regrettably, encountered numerous homeowners who have fallen victim to unscrupulous contractors. Last week we advised one of our clients to consult with a lawyer regarding the previous company’s substandard workmanship and negligence. The siding and flashing were deteriorating around the entire house, leading to infestations by bats, squirrels, and birds. This resulted in thousands of dollars in additional damages. The company refused to rectify any aspect of their work. When I met with the client, she broke down in tears recounting her ordeal. It would be difficult for any compassionate person not to feel empathy for her family. My hope with this guide is to help you avoid such situations and ensure a positive outcome.
So, how do you find a trustworthy contractor who is reliable, experienced, and committed to your needs? Follow this guide to make an informed decision and avoid hiring the wrong person for the job.
1. Ensure They Are Licensed to Work in Michigan
One of the most critical factors in hiring a contractor is making sure they are licensed to work in Michigan.
✅ Why It Matters:
A licensed contractor meets the legal requirements and follows Michigan’s building codes.
It ensures accountability and protects homeowners from subpar work.
Licensing proves that they have the necessary experience and training to complete your project properly.
📌 How to Verify: Check with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) to confirm their license is active and valid.
🚨🚨🚨Avoid: Do not pull permits for contractors as a homeowner. If a contractor asked you to do this I would run! 🚨🚨🚨
2. Verify They Have Insurance & Workers’ Compensation
A reputable contractor should have both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage.
✅ Why It Matters:
Protects you from liability if a worker gets injured on your property.
Covers accidental property damage during the project.
Indicates that the contractor is a responsible professional who prioritizes safety.
📌 How to Verify: Ask the contractor for a Certificate of Insurance and verify coverage directly with their insurance provider.
3. Check Their Google Reviews & Reputation
Before hiring, research the contractor’s online presence and reputation.
✅ Why It Matters:
Google Reviews provide real customer feedback and insights into their quality of work.
A high rating (4.5 stars and above) with detailed positive reviews is a great indicator of reliability.
Look for responses from the contractor to both positive and negative reviews—this shows their professionalism.
📌 Where to Check: Google Reviews, Facebook, BBB (Better Business Bureau), and local business directories.
4. Choose a Local Contractor Embedded in the Community
Hiring a local contractor over an out-of-town company comes with many advantages.
✅ Why It Matters:
They have a local reputation to uphold, meaning better service and reliability.
They are familiar with Michigan’s climate and understand the best materials for roofing and siding.
A local contractor is easier to reach if issues arise after the project is completed.
📌 How to Verify: Check their business address, website, and how long they’ve been in operation locally.
A lot of jobs require follow up after the work is done. It’s logistically difficult for a company out of state to honor any kind of warranty. Local is usually a better!
5. Make Sure They Prioritize Your Needs, Not Just Sales
A good contractor will focus on providing the best solution for your home rather than pressuring you into unnecessary upgrades or expensive options.
🚩 Red Flags:
High-pressure sales tactics or rushing you into a contract.
Unclear pricing or sudden hidden fees.
Contractors who don’t listen to your concerns or push expensive solutions without explanation.
📌 What to Look For: Choose a contractor who provides a thorough consultation, listens to your needs, and offers options that fit your budget.
6. Verify Their Certifications & Expertise
A high-quality contractor should have industry certifications and specialized training.
✅ Why It Matters:
Certifications prove their expertise and commitment to high industry standards.
Certified contractors are often trained in the latest techniques and best practices.
Some certifications provide extended warranties on materials and labor.
📌 Examples of Certifications to Look For:
James Hardie Preferred Contractor (for siding installations)
Certainteed Shingle Master (for roofing projects)
It’s important to know what they specialize in.
7. Look for a Solid Warranty on Their Work
A good contractor should stand by their work and offer a clear, written warranty.
✅ Why It Matters:
Protects you from unexpected repairs due to faulty workmanship.
A longer warranty shows the contractor’s confidence in their work.
Some warranties cover both labor and materials, so read the fine print.
📌 What to Ask:
What does the warranty cover?
How long is the coverage? (Look for at least 10 years for roofing and siding work.)
Is the warranty transferable? (Good if you plan to sell your home.)
8. Get Multiple Quotes & Compare
Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Compare at least three contractors to ensure you’re getting the best value.
✅ Why It Matters:
Some contractors overcharge while others may cut corners to offer a lower price.
A comparison helps you understand industry pricing and make an informed decision.
A professional contractor will provide a detailed estimate, including labor, materials, and timeline.
👀 What to Watch For:
Extremely low bids usually indicate cheap materials or unqualified labor. If the contractor is not using the right materials you may void any warranty from the manufacturer.
Vague contracts without clear deliverables. You should ask for a description of the work with a detailed list of the materials.
No official paperwork (always get it in writing!).
🏁 Final Thoughts: Find a Contractor You Can Trust
Finding a reliable contractor doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these steps—checking licensing, insurance, Google reviews, local reputation, certifications, and warranties—you can confidently hire the best professional for your project. Whether you need residential roofing services or new siding for your home, a great contractor will prioritize quality work, honesty, and customer satisfaction.
📞 Need a trusted local contractor? Click Allied Siding and Roofing today or call 248-814-2852 for a free consultation and let’s bring your vision to life with expert craftsmanship!