Milwaukee, Wis. – When you are building a new home, finding the right builder is crucial. Ask friends and family for suggestions and contact industry associations for a list of members. In the United States, check with the National Association of Home Builders. You can also look for a local association to help you find the right builder. Of course, BBB.org is also a great source of information about local builders you may be considering, including BBB Accredited Businesses.
Many things you need to do when hiring a builder are the same things you need to do when hiring a contractor or remodeler. BBB’s tips for hiring a contractor or remodeler cover the basics like getting estimates, what to look for in a contract, and reviewing previous work.
Four specific items you can discuss with your home builder:
Style: If you already have a specific style of home in mind, try to find a builder who specializes in that style. Ask how many homes they have constructed in the style you like. If you are still considering different styles, find a builder with a wide range of experience and make sure to check their work in various styles.
Communication: Do you feel you can easily communicate? Be sure you can reach the builder by phone, email, or in person, and that they respond in a timely manner. Ask how the builder will deal with changes or problems that come up. Remember that you will be dealing closely with this person through the whole process and, after they complete the work, as you live in your home.
Experience: You also want to consider how long the builder has been in business. It takes several years to establish a sound business and you want to be sure your builder will be around to service warranties after your home is complete.
Licensing: Talk to your builder about permits, but also do independent research with your local department of licensing or permits to find out what is required. Make sure the builder will be able to get all required permits before starting the work. Also, make sure your builder is registered with your state or province’s registration and licensing board.
Find trusted, vetted home builders near you and get a quote.For more information or further inquiries, contact the Wisconsin BBB at www.bbb.org/wisconsin, 414-847-6000 or 1-800-273-1002. Consumers also can find more information about how to protect themselves from scams by following the Wisconsin BBB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
ABOUT BBB: For more than 100 years, the Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. In 2020, people turned to BBB more than 220 million times for BBB Business Profiles on 6.2 million businesses and Charity Reports on 11,000 charities, all available for free at BBB.org. There are local, independent BBBs across the United States, Canada and Mexico, including BBB Serving Wisconsin which was founded in 1939 and serves the state of Wisconsin.
