Choosing an installer for your new countertops isn't much different from choosing any other professional home improvement specialist. There are several basic questions that need to be answered before any work begins. They include:
- Is the installer experienced?
- Have you had a chance to see some of his work?
- Is the installer easy to deal with?
- Does the installer have the appropriate insurance and contractor's license?
- Will the job be finished in a timely manner?
- Are the labor and materials covered under a warranty?
If you've visited your local home center or kitchen design center, they've probably already helped you pick out the color and pattern of your new countertop. They can now give you the names of the licensed and insured installers they use. The installers' work is most likely highly professional, or they wouldn't be on the retailer's preferred list. You can also check your phone book or internet directory for listings under "Kitchen" or "Countertops".
It's wise to interview the installer even if you've received a recommendation from a friend or retailer. He should be able to give you the addresses of one or two just-completed jobs in your area. Most homeowners are more than happy to show you their new kitchen countertops and can describe how the work went, how they communicated with the installer (and the retailer) and if they had any concerns after the work was done.
Communication is one of the more important aspects to emphasize when you interview the homeowner. Did the installer answer all of their questions and give them a firm completion date and follow through on that date? If there were any problems or delays, did he inform them promptly? Overall, was the installer easy to deal with?
If you get anything other than positive reviews from your conversations, try another retailer or installer, or at least assure yourself that the issues were minor and will not impact the quality of the work.
Finally, if the retailer hasn't already provided a detailed, written contract, obtain one from the installer. It should include price, payment terms, sales tax, permit fees (if any) and the work to be performed. It should state the exact materials (colors and styles) to be used, what warranties apply and provisions for a final review and cleanup.
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