Step 1 - Find the Right Contractor

Start your search by selecting contractors that are licensed, bonded, and insured to work on your specific type of project. For instance, a plumber should not be framing and vice-versa.

Step 2 - Reviewing the Portfolio

Review contractor portfolios for an overview of their workmanship and experience. Ensure the contractors you've narrowed down align with your expectations and note the level of professionalism experienced during any interactions with them.

Step 3 - Perform a Background Check

Verify selected contractor's credentials. Run their state license number and confirm they are bonded, have commercial general liability insurance, and worker's compensation insurance. Ask for customer testimonials too. This research will reveal any past legal issues and formal complaints on file.

Step 4 - Defining the Scope of the Project

Know what you want included in your project scope. Include the same scope for all estimate comparisons to ensure you're comparing apples to apples. If it's not in the scope, it's not in the price or work plan. Contractors should estimate and perform the work in the scope. Any project items added later is a change order and may have associated fees.

Step 5 - Obtaining an Estimate

At minimum, obtain at least three estimates from different contractors. This will help bring perspective on the cost variabilities based on contractor quality, experience, and skill level ranges.

Contractor Vetting Checklist

Have I verified the contractor is qualified and licensed properly to work on my project?
Have I verified that the contractor's state license number is current and in good standing?
Have I confirmed the contractor is bonded, has liability, and workers compensation insurance?
Do I have a written contract in accordance with California's contractor state licensing board?
Does the contractor include everything I want in the scope and estimate?
Is the contractor's business financially stable?
Does the contractor present their estimates, communications, and contracts in a professional manner?
Have I identified multiple contractors to obtain project estimates for comparison?
Does the contractor offer a workmanship warranty?
Have I checked past client references for the contractors I am considering?

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need to vet a contractor?

By vetting a contractor or construction company, you're ensuring they are properly licensed, insured, and in good standing to be considered for your project. This due diligence may protect you from assuming potential liability of defective work and job site injuries that can leave you vulnerable to litigation.

Why do I need multiple estimates?

Several estimates from different contractors helps identify price inconsistencies and their cause. For example, estimates may differ in pricing due to the exclusion of scope items, and/or lower quality finishes than desired. Future change orders for items not included in the scope and the estimate can potentially lead to higher job costs.

Should I select the lowest estimate?

Investigate how the lowest estimate came in as such. Are all the job scope items included in comparison to the others? Is the desired quality of materials or grade of finishes priced properly? Verify if your desired quality expectations are included in the price and project scope. Miscommunications or assumptions can be costly.

Why does the financial stability of a contractor matter to my project?

Financial stability of a company contributes to its reputation and credibility. This cultivates a relationship of trustworthiness and reliability needed for peace of mind that your project will be completed successfully and in a timely manner.

Reach out to experienced remodeling contractors in San Diego, CA

Our team of skilled remodeling contractors at Woolsey Construction in San Diego, CA specializes in customizing every project to perfectly fit your unique needs. Contact us today to start your personalized home remodeling and make your vision come true.

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Customer Testimonials

"The end result is amazing! The process went smoothly, the crew that we worked with was well qualified, conscientious, and worked collaboratively with us. In addition, they were all great guys and we enjoyed working with them. We felt very confident that all of the structural issues were handled appropriately. If an issue came up, alternatives were discussed and agreed upon before moving forward. We would absolutely use Woolsey Construction again and highly recommend them!"

DAWN O., LA MESA

"Luke Woolsey is every house owner’s dream contractor. Not only does he do excellent work to a very high standard, he is also honest, reliable, prompt, trustworthy, and a delight to work with."
DONNA K., SAN DIEGO

"I would highly recommend Luke Woolsey and his team for any construction or remodeling job. From bid to final inspection they were great to work with. His bid package included everything that we requested which was just the first indication that Luke pays attention to the details. His sub contractors do high quality work and Luke is there to make sure everything is perfect. He kept us informed throughout the project and in the end we love our casita!"

TOM M., CHULA VISTA