Building Contractor for Garage Additions

Enhance your home with a garage addition

Your garage may be falling down, nonexistant, or just too small for your needs, but a well planned addition can solve those problems and enhance your home's value, curb appeal, and functionality.

What kind of garage do you want?

Before you hire a contractor, consider your requirements.

• How do you want to use your new garage addition? The role you want it to play will determine how large it needs to be.
• Will it be multifunctional? Do you want to park the car, have a workbench, organize your garden and lawn equipment, and have an upstairs unit for your college-age son? If so, you'll need to plan down to the last detail.
• Will it be detached or attached to the main house?
• Where should it be located on your property? Do you want easy access to the kitchen or mud room?
• Are there constraints on where it can be built?
• How much do you have to budget for your project?

Hiring a contractor

Before signing a contract with a building contractor, make sure you get the research done first.

Start with references. Get references for projects similar in size and scope to your project. Call the homeowners and ask about the contractor's work habits and courtesy as well as workmanship. As to do a drive by to see the completed project; the homeowner may be happy to give you a tour of the completed garage.

Verify with local and state agencies that the contractor is licensed and insured as required by law. Obtain copies of his licensing and insurance. Flag your file to get renewed licenses and insurance if they expire during the course of the project.

Finally, review the contract carefully. Make sure you check warranties and terms. If you have questions, make sure you get answers before work begins.

By thorough planning and qualifying your contractor, you are more likely to achieve the level of quality and design you desire.