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11 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Concrete Contractor in New Orleans

Ways to Find a Concrete Pouring Contractor

Are you planning a new construction project in the Greater New Orleans area and need to hire a quality concrete contractor?

Finding the right contractor for your project can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. To ensure successful results, avoid some of the most common mistakes people make when selecting a concrete contractor in New Orleans.

By steering clear of these pitfalls, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you chose the best person for the job and that everything will go according to plan. Here are 11 mistakes to avoid when hiring a concrete contractor in New Orleans.

Choosing a Contractor Based Only on Price

When it comes to choosing a contractor to hire, many homeowners tend to base their decision only on price. The lowest bid might seem appealing, but it could also lead to an unreliable and inexperienced contractor.

This can cost more in the long run due to problems with the quality of work or unexpected delays or extra expenses. It’s important to take into account other factors such as experience, references, communication style, availability, and reputation when selecting a contractor in order to ensure the best outcome for any project that requires hiring contractors.

Not Checking References and Licenses

folder with license written on tab

A common mistake people make when hiring contractors is not following through with fully researching them and checking former client references. It’s important to contact previous clients to learn more about their experience, services, and accuracy so you can hire the right person for the job.

It is also important to ensure that the contractor has a valid license and insurance in order to protect both parties involved in case something goes wrong while working on your project. By properly researching and taking this extra step of precaution in inquiring about references and licenses, you can be sure that you are choosing a contractor with the best resources for your project.

Failing to Get a Detailed Written Contract

Failing to get a detailed written contract when choosing contractors to hire is a common mistake that can cost a business much time and money. Having a detailed written contract in place protects both parties from any disputes or misunderstandings about the scope of the job, payment terms, timelines for completion, etc.

It also allows for regular follow-up throughout the project, ensuring expectations are being met and providing resolution if something needs attention. A written contract with an articulate agreement will provide peace of mind and ensure both parties are satisfied at the job’s completion.

Not Asking About Insurance and Bonding

When hiring contractors for any sort of work, it is always important to make sure that the contractor is properly insured and bonded. Not doing so can be a very costly mistake down the road if something should go wrong during the course of the job that requires you to use those insurances and bonding in order to protect yourself.

Therefore, always inquire about insurance and bonding before hiring a contractor to ensure that they have their bases covered professionally if anything happens while they are working on your project.

Neglecting to Inquire About Experience and Expertise

Neglecting to ask about insurance and bonding when working with a contractor is a major oversight that can have significant ramifications down the line. Not only can it leave you liable for contractor negligence or damages, but it could even lead to costly settlements in event of a lawsuit.

On the other hand, researching and inquiring about the experience and expertise of a contractor may not have a legal consequence but will make all the difference between a subcontractor that does good quality work versus one that doesn’t measure up. It is important to realize the weight of these inquiries when engaging any contractors for your business.

Underestimating the Importance of Communication

Effective communication is key when it comes to finding a contractor for any given project. Failing to establish clear communication could lead to an unbalanced relationship, miscommunication, and various other possible problems that can affect the quality of the job or the completion of it.

It is crucial to communicate frequently with any contracted workmen throughout the project to ensure that no problems occur, as these can result in financial losses. Additionally, open and clear communication allows for feedback that may help improve the quality of the job as well as foster a good working relationship between contractors and clients.

Therefore, it is important not to underestimate effective communication when choosing a contractor to hire.

Ignoring the Importance of a Time frame for Completion

number 15 marked on a calendar
Timeline Calendar Days Dates Schedule 3d Illustration

When hiring a contractor or any other type of professional, it is essential to ensure that they understand the importance of meeting deadlines. Negotiating a time frame for completion with your contractor prior to starting the project can help you avoid making a costly mistake.

Being specific with how long the project should take ahead of time helps you stay within budget while also guaranteeing that the job gets done on time. If deadlines are not kept, then it will cost your business money and possibly even your reputation if the work is sub-par or rushed. A locked-in timeline keeps everyone accountable so that you get the best results with minimal issues.

Not Knowing the Total Cost Upfront

One of the biggest mistakes many people make when hiring a concrete contractor is not knowing the total cost upfront. This prevents contractors from overcharging you for services or charging more than what was originally discussed and accepted.

If a contractor does not offer an exact quote, ask for a detailed itemization of costs. Not all projects are alike, and it’s important to know precisely how much each item will cost so that you can be certain you’re getting the best deal possible and that there won’t be any surprises when it comes time to pay the bill.

Skipping the Inspection Process

Hiring a concrete contractor without first conducting an inspection of their services and credentials can prove to be a costly mistake. Pre-qualifying potential contractors are not only beneficial from a budget standpoint but also from a safety standpoint.

You should always inquire about the certifications and qualifications of the contractor before making any commitment, as uninsured contractors may continue to do shoddy workmanship on your project which could result in financial losses as well as hazardous results.

Furthermore, it’s important to make sure the contractor has had adequate experience and training with similar projects prior to starting your own project. Unfortunately, in some cases, a lack of appropriate inspections can lead to poorly constructed or dangerous property developments, costing homeowners far more than the cost of doing the research upfront.

Failing to Take Weather and Climate into Account

Hiring the right concrete contractor is essential to the success of any concrete project. That’s why it’s important to make sure that you consider climate and weather when looking for the right contractor.

High temperatures, rain, snow, ice, and wind can all have an effect on your finished work. Different types of concrete react differently in various climates and weather conditions, so it is important to ensure that the contractor you choose knows how to take these things into account when constructing your project.

Failing to do so could cause costly delays or even failures when it comes to your final product. Doing a bit of research upfront will pay off in the long run and save you considerable time and money.

Ignoring Red Flags or Unprofessional Behavior from the Contractor

When hiring a concrete contractor, it is important to watch for red flags such as unprofessionalism or any unacceptable behavior.

For example, the contractor should be punctual to appointments, have effective communication skills, and have an overall professional attitude.

Ignoring these red flags can lead to complications down the line. One must never ignore any signs of poor customer service or lack of respect as this can result in poor workmanship or even worse disputes between the contractor and yourself that can be costly.

Therefore, always pay close attention to the contractors you hire and take into account their professionalism before signing a contract with them.

Hire the Best Concrete Contractor in New Orleans

Big Easy Concrete is the best concrete contractor in New Orleans and provides quality services that you can rely on. Their contractors are highly trained and certified to complete any size project quickly, safely, and efficiently.

They use only the finest materials to ensure that your project is constructed with care from beginning to end. We have a proven track record for delivering top-notch customer service for every customer who chooses them for their next project. Call us today and have peace of mind knowing you’re getting the best value and reliable contractor around!

What Our Clients Say

“Most professional concrete work I have ever experienced. The contractors were honest and timely with clean up. The job was performed efficiently and as contracted. I would highly recommend this company!”

– Katie Dyer

“Big Easy Concrete did an amazing job! I needed repairs and concrete work done on my new driveway, and they were on time. Reasonable price and everything looks great. Will definitely recommend this company to my neighbors and friends.”

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“For any concrete and construction needs, don’t hesitate to call Big Easy Concrete. I had them for a concrete concrete service for our garage, and I am pleased with the result. Their team is reliable, organized and very pleasant to deal with. Thanks for the great job!”

– Antonio Anderson