As a new homeowner, I've got a list of repairs and improvements I want to tackle, including bolting my porches to the house, grading my uneven backyard, adding a shed, upgrading the heating system, installing gutters, checking a wet spot in my attic, and assessing a structural drain issue. I'm a little hesitant because I've heard horror stories about contractors ripping people off. I've also been told that general contractors might help me save on costs by getting better deals. While I'm open to spending a bit more for a trustworthy service, I'm unsure if hiring a general contractor for all these jobs makes sense, or if I should just hire individual workers. Can a general contractor even take on these this many diverse tasks?
1 Answer
Honestly, many of these jobs are more suited for handymen than a general contractor. For example, fixing the porch bolting could be a small job for a handyman, so start there. The grading might require a contractor, especially since it can involve engineering and heavy machinery. For things like the shed and heating upgrade, consider handling those with a handyman or HVAC contractor directly. If you're feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to your home inspector or realtor for trustworthy recommendations!
Thanks! Just to clarify, you think a contractor is really only needed for the grading job?