Finding a qualified contractor doesn't have to be complicated. Before hiring someone to work in your home, there are a few basic things worth checking.
Use the checklist below when comparing contractors. A reputable contractor should make it easy for you to verify the answers.
Qualified Contractor Checklist
✓ Start With the California Contractors State License Board
Before anything else, check the contractor with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). This one search can tell you whether the license is current and active, who the license belongs to, what trade classifications the contractor actually holds, bonding information, workers' compensation information and any complaint information disclosed by the CSLB.
Don't simply verify that a license number exists. Make sure the license belongs to the contractor you are considering and that the classification corresponds with the type of work being performed. For hardwood flooring, look for the C-15 Flooring and Floor Covering classification. National Floors has a C-15 license.
✓ Bonded and Insured
The CSLB can help you verify the contractor's bond and workers' compensation information. You can also ask the contractor to provide proof of applicable insurance coverage.
✓ Experience With Your Type of Project
Years in business matter, but so does relevant experience. Refinishing, staining, repairing and restoring existing hardwood floors require different skills than simply installing new flooring.
✓ A Clear Scope of Work
You should understand what is being done, what materials and finishes are being used, what is included in the price and what the finished project should look like.
✓ A Verifiable Reputation
Look at customer reviews, photographs of completed projects and the contractor's history. Don't focus only on the number of stars. Read what customers actually say about the workmanship, communication and final results.
✓ Reasonable Payment Terms
Know when your money is due. The more money you pay before work begins, the less leverage you have if you are unhappy with the completed project.
✓ Good Communication
A contractor should be willing to answer your questions and explain the work in terms you can understand. You shouldn't feel pressured into making a decision.
How Does National Floors Measure Up?
We believe a homeowner should be able to evaluate us using exactly the same standards.
National Floors is a California licensed, bonded and insured C-15 flooring contractor with more than 30 years of experience. We specialize in hardwood floor sanding, refinishing, staining, restoration and repair throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.
No Deposit — You Keep the Leverage
National Floors does not require a deposit on our residential hardwood flooring projects.
We don't ask you to pay us before we've earned it.
We complete the agreed-upon work first. You have the opportunity to inspect the completed project and approve our work. Payment is then due.
That policy is intentionally simple. We believe confidence should work both ways. You are trusting us with your home, and we're confident enough in our workmanship to complete the job before asking you to pay for it.
One Final Check
Qualifications, licensing, insurance, experience and reviews are important, but so is your own judgment. Meet the contractor, ask questions and make sure you are comfortable with the person or company you're hiring.
A good contractor shouldn't have to pressure you into saying yes. Their qualifications, workmanship and business practices should make you want to.
And when you call National Floors, a real person answers the phone and takes the time to talk with you.
