Home Improvement Contractor - Licensed Contractors

How do I find a good contractor to put a door into my basement?

I've already contacted everyone in the BBB directory under contractor and none of them can help me. I could look in the yellow pages, but how do I know if they are any good? What questions would I ask them? I also need the sewer line moved and electrical outlets.

Public Comments

1. If you go to Lowes for materials, they have contacts with dependable contractors. HomeDepot also.
2. I would look someone up in the phone book locally. I use to own a home improvement company; thing is...to find someone just to put a door in for you could be costly if you are looking for a licensed and insured contractor. If you know of someone to install the door for you after hours (a good handy man or maintenance man from an apartment complex or even a carpenter would be good suggestions.) The thing about the BBB is that they are a FOR-PROFIT organization, and they "hound" businesses to join for a fee each year. Yes, you may get a reputable company, but the BBB only reports on issues that are unresolved on a company. For sewer lines, look in the yellow pages for a sewer and drain service company that has been in business at least ten years...make sure they obtian a work permit, the same for electrical outlets unless you are only moving a few. If the latter is the case, then the "handy man" will save you many dollars...DO NOT GIVE ANY MONEY UPRONT!!! The BBB recommends no more than 20% down on a job before they start, but you are much better off waiting until they are through with the work and you are satisfied before paying a dime. What part of the U.S. do you live in?
3. Find a general contractor. He will have electricians plumbers carpenters etc under contract to him. Make sure the GC is licensed and insured. Ask for references and contact them. See if the GC followed through with what was supposed to be done and if the work was completed on time. would they use him again? Would they recommend him? When getting estimates make sure all bids are on the same work . Quality. Brand. Material. Are permits included? Do not pay upfront. Hope this helps.
4. servicemagic.com
5. You need a General Contractor. Visit your local lumber yard, or building supply company. Not the big box stores - they tend to cater to on and off contractors. These guys work for awhile-then take a few weeks off, take another job ,take a few weeks off. You'll be lucky to get them at the job 5 days in a row. A general contractor knows all these people you need , and has worked with them before, and will work for them again. He is like the team leader- the subs need him , and he needs the subs. I am a General Contractor. You will deal with 1 person - The G.C. Ask for a detailed proposal _ not and estimate. Ask for a copy of his/her certificate of insurance. Ask how change orders will be handled.