Alright, you've decided it's time for a new deck or to finally replace that old one. That's exciting! But then comes the big question: who do you hire? It's not as simple as just picking the cheapest guy, believe me. I've seen too many homeowners in Brooklyn, MD, get stuck with shoddy work or unfinished projects because they didn't know what to look for. So, let's talk about how to find a legitimate, quality deck builder.
Questions to Ask Every Deck Contractor
You've got to be prepared when they show up. Don't just let them talk *at* you. Here are the questions you need to hit them with:
- Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. Ask for proof of both. A general contractor's license (MHIC) is a must, and they need liability insurance to protect your property and workers' comp for their crew. If they hesitate or say they're 'between policies,' show them the door.
- How long have you been building decks specifically? Someone who's mostly done roofing might not be your best bet for a complex deck structure. You want experience in this exact field.
- Can you provide references from recent deck projects? And I mean *recent*. Call those people. Ask if the job was on time, on budget, and if they'd hire them again.
- What's your typical project timeline, from start to finish? This helps set expectations. Delays happen, especially with weather, but they should have a clear process.
- Who will be doing the actual work? Your employees or subcontractors? If it's subs, ask about their vetting process. You want to know who's on your property, right?
- How do you handle permits and inspections? In Anne Arundel County, permits are required for decks. A good contractor handles all of that for you. They should know the local codes inside and out.
- What kind of warranty do you offer on your workmanship? Materials usually have their own warranties, but what about the installation itself?
What to Look For in a Quote
Getting a quote shouldn't be a quick, scribbled number on a napkin. A professional quote will be detailed. Here's what I expect to see:
- Clear breakdown of costs: Materials (type, quantity), labor, permit fees, demolition, debris removal. Everything should be itemized.
- Specific materials: Not just