Alright, so you need some stucco work done on your home. Maybe it's a small repair, a full re-stucco job, or you're adding on. Whatever the project, you want it done right, and you certainly don't want to get ripped off. I get it. As someone who's been doing this for years here in Simi Valley, I've seen the good, the bad, and the downright ugly when it comes to contractors. Picking the right one isn't just about finding the cheapest bid; it's about getting a job that lasts and, frankly, not having to worry about it.
What to Ask Potential Stucco Contractors
Once you've got a few names, don't be shy. You're hiring someone to work on your biggest investment, after all. Here are some questions you absolutely need to ask:
Are you licensed and insured? This isn't something you can skip. Ask for their California contractor's license number; you can even look it up online yourself. And make sure they carry both general liability and workers' compensation insurance. If they don't, and someone gets hurt on your property, you could be on the hook for it.
How long have you been doing stucco work specifically? Some general contractors dabble in everything, but you really want someone who specializes in stucco. It's a craft, and experience makes a huge difference.
Can you provide references? And don't just take their word for it. Call those references! Ask about their experience, whether the job finished on time and within budget, and if they'd hire the contractor again.
What kind of warranty do you offer on your work? A good, reputable contractor will stand behind what they do. Make sure you get it in writing.
Who will actually be doing the work? Your own crew or subcontractors? It's always good to know who's going to be on your property. If they use subs, ask how they check them out.
How do you handle unexpected issues? Sometimes you uncover dry rot or other problems once you start tearing into things. You need to understand their process for telling you about these discoveries and how they'd adjust the project and its cost.
What's your payment schedule? Never, ever pay the full amount upfront. A common schedule involves a deposit, then progress payments, and a final payment once the job is complete and you're happy with it.
Decoding the Quote: What to Look For
A good quote is more than just a number. It should be a really detailed breakdown of the work. Here's what you should expect and keep an eye out for:
Detailed Scope of Work: It needs to clearly state what's included. Is it just a patch? A full re-stucco? What kind of stucco system are they suggesting (like traditional three-coat or one-coat)? Which materials will they use? Don't settle for vague terms like