What do I need to know when before I talk to contractors? I am putting on an addition to my ranch style home and I feel like I am clueless. Please help.

You need to know the size and shape that you want. You want to know about the roof you want added, How many windows and where. Will there be an outside door, also where will the door be to enter the other part of the house. Do you want a vaulted ceiling or just a plane flat one. You will need to know about the electric, One switch, or do you plan to add a fan if so add another switch for the fan. How many lights, do you want them to operate off one switch, do you want dimmers.
What about plumbing, if you are adding a bath you will need to know all that you want in it.
This is just a sample, but you need to get everything set in your mind or you will pay double for any changes you make after the contract is signed.

I think I would start with a list of code requirements from the building authorities in your area.
Take the time to thoroughly check out the contractors applying for the job. Make sure every detail is spelled out in the contract.

One more thing, most contractors will require a down payment before work can start. This is OK but DO NOT make the last payment until the job is 100% complete and you are 100% satisfied with the work.

1st thing In my suggestion from being a contractor for sometime now. I would say find a contractor who is willing to sit down with you and help design what YOU want. This will also give you a good sense of the character of the person. More than likely that contractor will be the one who takes pride in their work.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by chullyman

1st thing In my suggestion from being a contractor for sometime now. I would say find a contractor who is willing to sit down with you and help design what YOU want. This will also give you a good sense of the character of the person. More than likely that contractor will be the one who takes pride in their work.

---

Excellent advice.

LILJ19,
If you do not get references to the contractor of character, sketch out what you think you want on paper get a good home designer to do the floor and structure elevation plan only. Color renderings are unnecessary(not an architect who designs banks) then put out for 3 bids, throw out the high and low and look at the middle guy closely. See what the differences in material and subcontract costs are going to be if each contractor can give you and idea on what their electrical plumbing and carpentry help charge. Then some times you might be able to squeeze info out of the local BBB and building contractor guilds in your area. I once would get one to ten ratings on each contractor in a busy area. Good luck.