How To Choose a Concrete Contractor

Top 10 Checklist for Choosing a First-Rate Concrete Contractor

Concrete is so versatile. Choosing a reliable, professional concrete contractor to fulfill your needs can be challenging if you aren’t sure what to look for in the search criteria. Follow this top 10 checklist to make the best choice in concrete contractors. 

1. Do the necessary research.

First, find out what work needs to be done. If you are lost even at this part of the process, identify which companies will offer free, no-obligation consultations as part of the vetting process. 

2. Do your homework.

Do some brief research on what this kind of work looks like and the costs incurred. Professionals will have industry-specific information readily available for the convenience of potential customers. 

3. Identify your needs.

Finding a concrete contractor specializing in the specific work area that you need is always a bonus. However, don’t count out competitors that have impressive portfolios and years of experience. Experienced concrete contractors have connections across industries and can meet versatile needs through years of making connections through jobs. 

4. Use the request for proposal (RFP) process.

Try creating an RFP and sending it out to contractors. The information you provide will allow contractors to provide quotes and business information about the job you are requesting. This process is often in commercial ventures, but more residential accounts are sending out detailed RFPs to save time and money. 

5. Check references. 

By using the RFP process, you will gather all the information needed to vet list numbers five through 10. Providing references is standard practice. However, you can ask the business for the same info outside of the RFP process. Requesting three to seven references from a potential contractor will help you better understand their work ethic and, hopefully, jobs well done.

6. Verify experience through portfolios.

Be sure also to request a portfolio. Portfolios are also often available online without having even to request them through the business. Online portfolios showcase both jobs well done and transparency in communication. 

7. Verify up-to-date insurance.

All concrete contractors should have verified up-to-date insurance. Whether you feel a contractor is trustworthy is not relevant to legal matters. When you reach the final stages of narrowing selections, contact the insurance carrier and check their current enrollment for your legal safety and the safety of the job. 

8. Consider reviews. 

Use a three-pronged approach to reviews. Look to friends and family, online sources not attached to the business in question, and check the website of the business you are considering. Evaluating the three together will help you make a more informed overall decision about the average accurate consumer review. 

9. Evaluate customer service.

Call or email the business and ask a question, submit a proposal, and then wait for the answer. If the communication process is smooth, respectful, and timely, this will indicate your future of doing business with the concrete contractor. If you have to reach out to no avail, likely you’re blessing yourself with a very bright red flag early in the process. Heed the warning. 

10. Make price comparisons. 

A good rule of thumb is to compare proposals and quotes from three to five different contractors. Some people can only stand the three proposal selection process, but those who can endure all five will find they ultimately received the better deal. Don’t just look only at a price, either. Consider price against the other nine elements of this checklist to make a holistic decision about your concrete contracting needs. 

Choosing a concrete contractor in Santa Rosa doesn’t have to break a sweat or the bank. The professionals at RTS Construction also specialize in concrete installations and applications to make your next concrete job stress-free.