Replies

1. 
   calvin | Apr 23, 2011 02:32pm | #1

   That's a big question

   Sort of.

   I wouldn't go to angies list for anything that had a more immediate local answer.

   Where are you located, out in the sticks or in a burb of a larger city?

   Here, I would ask human beings I could talk to face to face. 

   You might not want to take the first brother in law recommendation you get from a stranger (or as I heard last week-from a friend).  Seems that recommendation comes more from the need to find him some work than to supply a reputable referral.

   But, inspectors know who does good work, they also know who finishes, who's organized and to a certain extent, the personality of the trades-person.

   A real lumberyard, plumbing supply and general construction material distributor would maybe know the quality of work, but would surely know the business acumen of their customers.  Does the guy have an account or do they require he pay cash for his pickups?

   Close friends that have had to go through similar work might also be a good place to ask.  They either liked the guy or hated him.  You might get a slanted answer, but it might turn out good.

   I'm a remodeler that works in maybe a 30 mi radius of where I live.  I've been in the trade for almost 40 yrs.  I can tell you who NOT to call pretty easily.  I don't recommend roofers.  With all the subbing of roofing around here, I can't take the chance.  But ask me for a contractor, electrician, plumber, painter etc, I'll give you a list according to your needs and location.  I've been working with the same group of subs probably 20 yrs and what this means is my jobs are ordered, on time, no stumbling over each other because someone didn't show up on schedule.  Like a well oiled machine.

   Speak a little more about the area you're in, the project you're planning and maybe step out in the yard and take a couple pictures and post them here.

   Best of luck.

1. 
   mpmayer | Apr 30, 2011 09:04am | #2

   Thanks for all the info! I live in the Oklahoma City area I will try to post some photos... I mainly want to convert attic space into a master bedroom and maybe go out from the back of the housewith the room and have a covered patio or something underneath..basically i want to get more space in ways that are feasable...

1. 
   calvin | Apr 30, 2011 11:16am | #3

   This was once a very vibrant place. Now?.................

   There probably was someone who posted here from the Oklahoma City area.  They may have been a good source for information, but currently, I'm not sure there are any regulars from that area.

   However, try the methods I suggested and for sure-post a photo or 10 showing the place and what you "think" is a possible idea.  Might get a couple interesting responses.

   While anything can certainly be done with the proper amount of money, sometimes things are easier doing it one way over another.  Easier should mean $avings, though that's not a given.  The kitchen and bath are the most per sq ft cost in an addition/renovation.  Some houses can easily accept an expansion, others require both plumbing and electrical upgrade.

   Best of luck.

1. 
   calvin | May 01, 2011 10:35am | #5

   While I agree, it could be a good referral source............

   I'll also remind the original poster that there are members of most professional organizations that aren't worth the letters behind their name-associating them with that org.  When the qualifications amount to paid memberships, you might get lucky and you might not.

2. 
   [email protected] | May 02, 2011 08:00pm | #6

   No license required.

   You live in a state, that doesn't require contractor licensing for residential work except for hvac, electrical, and plumbing.  So, unfortunately you're on your own.  Any kid with a pickup, and magnetic sign on the door can be a contractor.  So, you have one less filter. 

   You really might want to talk to a design professional, they are licensed, and liable for heir mistakes, and can give you good recommendations on what it will take to do different potential modifications to your house.  Most of them have contractors taht they have worked with before, and can give you recommendations on who is good. 

2. 
   ad73 | May 01, 2011 10:31am | #4

   finding a contractor

   Go to http://www.nari.org , this is a national trade association that may have a local chapter in your area. The membership consists of contractors,designers and suppliers. All operate on a very professional level. I would think you would be able to find someone who can help you out.