Hiring a contractor that uses environmentally friendly practices and materials can help you meet your sustainability goals while saving money. From nontoxic paint to water-efficient plumbing, eco-friendly home renovations can make a big difference. However, finding a contractor prioritizing environmental sustainability over marketing can be challenging.
Check Their Credentials
Choosing the right contractor is essential for any home renovation project. However, it’s essential when selecting a green remodeler. Eco-friendly remodeling is a growing trend that helps limit waste and emissions during construction. The best contractors will have credentials demonstrating their knowledge of sustainable remodeling practices. This may include certifications, references, and a portfolio of previous projects.
They should also be familiar with federal, state, and local incentives for green improvements. These are a great way to save on energy costs and increase your home’s value. A legitimate contractor should have a license to work in your area and worker’s compensation/general liability insurance. If they don’t, this is a red flag that you should steer clear of them. A non-insured contractor is a huge risk for you and your family. You can check reputable websites or go here to check their credentials.
Check Their License
It is important to double-check a contractor’s license before hiring them for your project. Several local governments have online license search portals you can use to verify professional licenses. A green remodeler will be familiar with federal, state, and local energy incentives for homeowners. They will also know how to reduce the amount of materials in landfills. Look for contractors who prioritize sustainability on their websites and look for transparency in their business practices. This will ensure you find a builder that genuinely practices eco-friendly construction.
Check Their Insurance
As a homeowner, you seek a contractor prioritizing sustainable construction and practices. This includes reusing and recycling materials and reducing the amount of waste that’s created during a renovation.
The first step is to ask for references from their past clients. Make sure to ask for 15-20 of them. Then call each to ensure the contractor is a good fit for your project. You should also find out if the contractor has experience with government incentives for energy efficiency. Many state and local utility providers offer rebates for green home improvements, such as insulation and new appliances. This is another great way to reduce your energy costs while promoting sustainability. This will save you money in the long run.
Check Their References
A significant home renovation can create a lot of waste, and an eco-friendly contractor will limit the amount of materials in landfills. In addition, they will minimize the use of new materials and equipment and ensure that all recycling is done correctly. Ask potential contractors for references and contact information of past clients whose projects were similar to yours. This will help you gauge the quality of their work and whether it matches your goals. Determining what federal, state, and local incentives are available for green renovation projects is also important. Some include rebates for energy efficiency upgrades, tax credits, and low-interest financing. Ask your contractor to be sure they are familiar with these programs and how to qualify for them.
Check Their Pricing
Once you’ve checked their credentials and licenses, seen their work, and spoken with their references, it’s time to nail down the price. There’s only sometimes much wiggle room on pricing, so it pays to get multiple quotes.
Also, ask about any potential rebates or incentives for green home renovations. Many utility companies offer incentives for energy upgrades, and federal, state, and local programs are available.
Another thing to note is whether or not the contractor itemizes their bid. This helps you determine exactly what is and isn’t included in the cost estimate, which may prevent disputes later.
