KERALA LAND BUYER'S COMPANION HANDBOOK
Architect Shahdad Karim
PART V: Professional Services and Project Materials
Chapter
30: Verify the Reputation of the Builder or Contractor
Verify the credibility of
the builder or contractor you plan to hire.
When it comes to building or buying a
home, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing a builder
or contractor. A builder is responsible for ensuring that the construction of
your home meets all the necessary standards and codes. However, it can be
challenging to choose the right builder, especially if you are a first-time
homebuyer. It is essential to verify the reputation of the builder or
contractor you plan to hire to ensure that your investment is safe and your
home is built to your satisfaction.
Here are some tips to help you verify
the reputation of a builder or contractor in Kerala:
1. Check their licenses and
certifications
Before you hire a builder or
contractor, it is crucial to verify their licenses and certifications. In
Kerala, the builder or contractor you hire must be registered with the Kerala
Government under the Kerala Building and Construction Workers Welfare Board.
Additionally, they should have a license from the local authority, such as the
Corporation, Municipality or Panchayat, to carry out construction work.
2. Look for references
and reviews
A good builder or contractor will
have no problem providing references from previous clients. Be sure to check these
references and ask about the quality of the work, communication, and whether
they completed the work on time and within budget. You can also look for online
reviews from sites like Google, Facebook, and Yelp.
3. Verify their
experience
It is important to choose a builder
or contractor with a proven track record of success. A builder with years of
experience in the industry will likely have encountered various challenges and
learned how to overcome them. They will also have established relationships with
suppliers and subcontractors, which can be beneficial for your project.
4. Check for complaints
You can verify the reputation of a
builder or contractor by checking if there have been any complaints filed
against them. The Kerala Government has an online portal called
"SPARK" where you can check for complaints filed against a particular
builder or contractor.
5. Visit their previous
projects
Visiting previous projects of the
builder or contractor can give you a good idea of the quality of their work.
You can check for things like the finishing, attention to detail, and overall
quality of the work.
6. Check for insurance
A reputable builder or contractor
will have insurance to protect you and their employees in case of accidents or
damages during the construction process. Ensure that the builder or contractor
you plan to hire has adequate insurance coverage.
7. Check for guarantees
and warranties
A reputable builder or contractor
will offer guarantees and warranties for their work. Ensure that you understand
the terms and conditions of these guarantees and warranties.
8. Verify their financial
stability
It is important to choose a builder
or contractor who is financially stable. A financially stable builder or
contractor is less likely to run into financial difficulties during the
construction process, which can lead to delays or poor-quality work.
Conclusion
In conclusion, verifying the
reputation of a builder or contractor is an essential step in building or
buying a home. By following these tips, you can ensure that you choose a
reputable builder or contractor who will build your home to your satisfaction.
Remember to do your due diligence before making any hiring decisions, and don't
be afraid to ask for references, check for certifications and licenses, and ask
for insurance coverage. With a bit of research, you can find a reputable
builder or contractor in Kerala and enjoy your dream home.
