Hiring a contractor is a big decision, and the relationship you build with them directly impacts how smoothly your renovation goes. Whether it's your first renovation or your fifth, these tips will help you get the best experience — and the best results.
Before Construction Starts
Verify Credentials
In New Jersey, contractors performing home improvement work over $500 must hold an active Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration. Before signing anything:
- Verify their HIC license at the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs
- Confirm they carry liability insurance and workers' comp
- Check reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau
- Ask for references from recent projects similar to yours
- Make sure they're bonded (provides financial protection if they fail to complete work)
Get a Detailed Contract
NJ law requires written contracts for home improvement projects. A good contract should include:
- Detailed scope of work (what's included AND what's not)
- Total price and payment schedule
- Estimated start and completion dates
- Material specifications (brand, model, color — not just "contractor grade")
- Change order process and pricing
- Warranty information
- License number and insurance details
- 3-day right to cancel (required by NJ law for door-to-door sales)
Understand the Payment Structure
In NJ, contractors cannot require a deposit exceeding one-third of the total contract price. Legitimate payment schedules are tied to project milestones. Be wary of anyone asking for full payment upfront or cash-only deals.
During Construction
What to Expect Day-to-Day
Living through a renovation takes patience. Here's what's normal:
- Noise and dust: Demolition and construction generate both. A good contractor puts up dust barriers and cleans up daily.
- Work hours: Most contractors work 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Weekend work is rare unless you've agreed to it.
- Subcontractors: You'll see different crews for different trades (electricians, plumbers, tile setters). This is normal — your general contractor coordinates them all.
- Inspections: The building inspector will visit at various stages. Your contractor schedules these. Inspections may cause brief pauses while waiting for approval to proceed.
- Quiet days: Some days the house may be quiet — materials are being ordered, permits are being processed, or the next trade is scheduled for the following day. This is normal.
Communication Best Practices
Good communication is the single biggest factor in renovation satisfaction. Here's how to do it right:
- Establish one point of contact. Communicate through your project manager or GC, not individual subcontractors. This avoids confusion.
- Use written communication for decisions. Text or email so there's a record. "We discussed" is less reliable than "here's the text where we agreed."
- Ask for regular updates. A good contractor will proactively update you. If yours doesn't, ask for weekly check-ins.
- Bring up concerns early. If something doesn't look right, say something immediately. It's easier (and cheaper) to fix things before the next phase covers them up.
- Avoid scope creep. "While you're at it, can you also..." is how budgets balloon. Every addition should go through a written change order with an agreed price.
Handling Change Orders
Changes during construction are almost inevitable. Maybe you discover outdated wiring behind a wall, or you decide you want that upgraded tile after all. A professional change order process includes: description of the change, cost impact, timeline impact, and written approval before work proceeds. Never approve verbal-only changes.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Contractor asks for more than 1/3 upfront or full payment before completion
- No written contract or vague scope of work
- Can't provide license number or proof of insurance
- Pressures you to make quick decisions
- Offers a price that seems too good to be true (it usually is)
- No references or unwilling to show past work
- Wants to skip permits ("it'll save you money")
- Disappears for days without communication
After Construction
Once your renovation is complete:
- Do a thorough walkthrough. Create a punch list of any items that need attention. A professional contractor will address these promptly.
- Get all documentation. Collect warranties, permit sign-offs, material information, and paint colors for your records.
- Understand your warranty. Know what's covered and for how long. Most reputable contractors offer 1-2 year workmanship warranties.
- Leave a review. If you had a good experience, online reviews are the best way to thank your contractor and help other homeowners. Our review page makes it easy.
The La Vaca Difference
At La Vaca General Contractors, we prioritize transparent communication, detailed contracts, and regular project updates. We use technology to keep you informed with photos, progress reports, and easy communication channels. Our process is designed to make your renovation as stress-free as possible.
Ready to experience the difference? Contact us for a free consultation. Learn more about our approach on our process page, or read what our clients say on our reviews page.