Contact Us | Home Page

Choosing a General Contractor in New Jersey

One of the most important decisions to make before beginning any type of construction or home improvement project is who to hire as your contractor. It is the single most important decision you will make in regards to your project.

In addition to the physical aspects of a building and/or remodeling project, a general contractor is generally responsible for procuring materials (selection of the appropriate materials, timing of the delivery of materials), hiring subcontractors as needed, obtaining the necessary building permits, and keeping sound financial records. In short the contractor handles all aspects of your project. When you hire a contractor, you need to hire someone you feel comfortable with; you need someone you can trust.

Sometimes an architect is involved and you have drawings in hand; sometimes you have an idea and you don’t even know if it is feasible. Regardless of the stage of your project, a trustworthy contractor is of utmost importance.

• Ask people you know for recommendations.
• Visit a local lumber company and ask for any recommendations; check their bulletin board, if available, for information on local contractors.
• Search the internet; look in a phone directory.

Narrowing down the contractor list can sometimes be tedious. If a contractor does not show up on time for an appointment or does not show up at all, consider that to be an indication of how the contractor will handle the rest of the project – regardless of the excuses phoned in following the missed appointment.

• Prior to requesting a bid from a contractor, discuss timeframes for beginning and ending your project. It may be that your timeframe expectations do not fall within a time period the contractor is available. You will then need to decide if you will delay the project or seek additional contractors.
• Remember to make sure you are able to clearly define the project, to the best of your ability, prior to requesting a bid. It is very helpful if you have a written description of the project clearly outlining your understanding of the project and your expectations.
• Once you know the contractor(s) are available and you have clearly defined the project, request bids. The bids should be detailed and separate out specific segments of the project. Always obtain the bids in writing.
• Compare bids noting what is and is not included in each. Remember that it is not always best to hire the least expensive contractor. Look for the value in a job well done; look for a contractor that is best suited to handle your project and a contractor that has provided a bid to you that is within your budget.

While the financial aspect of a project is probably the most significant factor to consider, you need to be able to rely on the contractor, because it is the contractor that is almost single-handedly responsible for the success of your project.

Throughout the course of your initial discussions with potential contractors, evaluate the frequency and level of communication. It will be important for you to develop a solid relationship with your contractor. Keep the lines of communication open. Observe and take into account how easily or how strained communication is between you and the contractor.

If you are seeking a general contractor in New Jersey, in particular Hunterdon County or the surrounding areas, contact Tuck Batch at Batch Building & Remodeling, Inc. Batch Building & Remodeling is the company to hire!

General Contractor turning homeowner's dreams into reality since 1984!

Conceptual Design ~ Planning

New Construction ~ Additions

Kitchens ~ Baths

Remodeling ~ Renovations

Demolition

Drywall ~ Flooring ~ Ceilings

Cabinetry ~ Painting ~ Plastering ~ Tile Work

Masonry ~ Concrete ~ Roofing

Decks ~ Pavers

Windows ~ Siding

• Energy-Efficiency Improvements
  
  
• Award-winning designs residential and commercial
  
  
• An in-depth knowledge and understanding of construction and engineering concepts
  
  
• Professional and precise carpentry and craftsmanship