Before we begin, we’ll want to make sure we have an efficient way at keeping track of the potential contractors that we find.

Note: You don’t necessarily have to do this, but it may make the process much more effective.

We created an easy-to-use spreadsheet that you can use alongside this guide by either filling it out on your phone/computer, or you can print it out to manually fill it out.

But first, let’s take a look at how to use it.

There are 3 key areas to look at:

1. The Business Information – this is where we want to jot down each company name and their phone number.
2. The Qualifications – This is where we want to keep track of the number of years the contractor/company has been in business, and if they are licensed and insured.
3. The Bidding Section – This is where we’ll keep track of the cost and time estimates.

You can find the spreadsheet by clicking here and the printable PDF by clicking here.

Do you remember having to flip through your Yellow Pages to find local businesses?

In 2020, finding reliable contractors is easy… if you know where to look.

…which you’ll see in section 2 below…

… how we can qualify each contractor in Section 4…

…which will lead to our next section for obtaining prices from each contractor…

Franchise-Based, Local Businesses, & Independent Contractors

The first step to qualify your contractor is to decide which type of business they operate.

Typically, there are three different types of contractors: franchised-based, locally owned, and independent.

Deciding which of the three is best for your project could make a huge difference in many factors including the price of the job, the time it will take, their craftsmanship, and much more.

Read below to see the advantages and disadvantages of each:

Advantages of Using Franchise-Based Contractors

• May have better resources and workforce
• Could have top-of-the-line tools, machines, etc. to meet franchise standards

Disadvantages of Using a Franchised Company

• Lack of leadership or management skills
• Could be underqualified or lack work history (Take ServPro for example – a water damage restoration company that holds 1.8/5 stars on Consumer Affairs)

Advantages of Using a Local Business

• A stronger connection with the community
• Could have plenty of referrals

Disadvantages of Using a Local Company

• Their workforce may be limited

Advantages of Using an Independent Contractor

• Most likely the most inexpensive of the three
• Could have the most drive and motivation to do a better job

Disadvantages of Using an Independent Contractor

• May not have the resources to handle certain projects
• Insurance or licenses may be inadequate or
• Can typically work on one project at a time

…which we’ll use in Section 6 will help you pick the one…

If you’re a resident of Naples, Florida, we have a contractor for each category ~ Action