Do your homework before having work done on your home.

Use this checklist to help you select a builder or remodeler to work on or build your home.
  • Does the builder or remodeler have a permanent business location and a good reputation with local banks and suppliers?
  • How long have they been in the building business? It usually takes three to five years to establish a financially sound business. Will they be around after the construction is complete to service any warranties?
  • Is your builder a member of the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis? (www.bagi.com)
  • Have you called your local Better Business Bureau? They can alert you to any complaints.
  • Does the builder/remodeler have sufficient workers compensation and general liability insurance? If not, you may be liable for any construction-related accidents on your premises.
  • Will the builder/remodeler provide you with names of previous customers? Ask them if they would hire the builder/remodeler again.
  • Have you seen the builder/remodelers work, both completed and in progress? Check for quality of workmanship and materials.
  • Are you able to communicate with the builder/remodeler? Remember you will be in close contact with them throughout the construction process and afterward as you live in your new home.
  • Will the builder/remodeler provide you with a complete and clearly written contract? The contract will benefit both of you. Review it carefully.
  • Be cautious of unusually low-priced bids. If the builder/remodeler is unable to pay for the materials and labor as the project proceeds, this may indicate a potential problem.
 With so many types of home building companies out there, it’s a little tough to figure out who does what and who builds what. Here’s a quick run-down on how to tell the difference between custom and production home building companies.

Custom home builders generally:

  • Build on land you own. Some custom builders also build on land they own.
  • Build one-of-a-kind houses. A custom home is a site-specific home built from a unique set of plans for a specific client. Some custom builders may offer design/build services.
  • Build single-family homes.
    Are generally small-volume builders (those that build 25 or fewer homes a year).
  • Builds for all price points but tend to focus on move-up and luxury homes

Production home builders generally:

  • Build on land they own.
  • Tend to use stock plans, but usually offer a variety of plan choices and options.
  • Build all types of housing — single-family, condos, town houses, and rental properties.
    Are large-volume builders (those that build more than 25 homes a year).
  • Generally build for all price points - entry level, move up, luxury, etc.