Our lives are changing daily as we get used to "the new normal," and many of us are finding ourselves working more from home.

Morrison’s Home Improvement can help you create a functioning office space, often in areas that you might not think is possible. Consider creating a multipurpose space, such as:  office/laundry, office/home gym, office/guest room, or even hidden offices in closets with folding desks and other innovative products and materials. Morrison's designers also can help you turn your attic, basement, garage or even a backyard space into your home business with customized solutions.

Whether you're looking for an innovation or a more traditional home upgrade, you'lll want to be sure to pick the most competent of professionals. It's not always an easy task, so here are a few things to think about and aid you when picking a contractor, courtesy of your friends at Morrison’s Home Improvement:

1) Do your homework.

Homeowners are a lot more likely to make poor choices if they feel pressured when picking a contractor. Picking whoever shows up on your doorstep is rarely your best option, so plan to do some homework ahead of time. This isn’t always possible for emergencies, of course, so it is a good idea to have some companies in mind before you actually need their services.

Choosing companies that complete multiple facets of home remodel and repairs is very useful. Some companies, such as Morrison’s Home Improvement, even have an office and showroom space where salespeople are available to educate you, the homeowner, about the products they supply and install.

It is also important when choosing a contractor that you find a company that is well established in the area. Too often consumers have work completed by a “contractor” who works off of the back of his truck, and when faults begin to show in the work that was completed, said “contractor” is nowhere to be found!  Morrison’s is a family owned and operated business that has been helping the residents of Berkshire County and beyond since 1992.

2) Compare quotes, materials and personnel.

When comparing prices, the cheapest quote is rarely the best. Often this reflects poor workmanship and/or products. Consumers must make sure that the quotes presented are comparing apples to apples. For example, one quote may be cheaper, but fail to incorporate the cost of certain materials or goods that are needed to complete the task at hand (i.e. Dumpster fee, permit charge, etc.).

Comparing materials is just as important. Windows, for example, range drastically in energy efficiency, performance, and price. Others may claim to have superior windows, but the efficiency ratings don’t lie. Search for great products with superior warranties at a fair price. Morrison’s is the Exclusive Dealer for Kensington Windows, featuring Heat Mirror Glass technology, made in the USA and rated the most energy efficient window, according to the EPA Energy Star Ratings! (Pro tip: If you're replacing windows or adding a screened porch, be sure to ask Morrison's personnel about Tiger Wire durable and pet proof screens and pet doors.)

Finally, confirm that all of the work being completed is by trained and certified employees, screened and chosen for their craftsmanship — not by the cheapest subcontractors available that day.

3) Check their licenses and permits. 

The professional you hire needs to possess the right license to do the job and obtain any required permits to work on your home. Contractors, for example, are typically licensed by your state, and the work done by unlicensed people can be downright dangerous, not to mention a violation of building codes.

Did you know?  If a contractor is not licensed and a permit is pulled, the homeowner becomes liable if anything goes wrong during the project or if anyone is injured.

4) Research their insurance.

Believe it or not, in most cases your homeowners insurance policy will not cover injuries or accidents that occur from work being done on your property. This means you need to make sure that the contractor carries their own insurance coverage. Otherwise, you could be personally liable for any injuries that happen on the job site.

Morrison’s Home Improvement is fully licensed and insured in the state of Massachusetts as a Home Improvement Contractor and Licensed Construction Supervisor. All of their projects are completed with the appropriate licenses and permits in place. Additionally, their full liability and workers compensation coverage on all of their crews, further protects you as the homeowner.

5) Get references.

One of the most important parts of choosing a contractor is looking at their references and past work. Talk to your friends, family and neighbors, and the contractor themselves. Most reputable contractors will have online and written reviews, and a list of clients and past work they can supply you with.

Some things to look for in your research:

• Did they complete the job on time and within budget?
• Were they professional at all times?
• Did they keep the work site tidy and clean up after themselves?
• Was the quality of their work up to par?
• Are past customers likely to recommend the company and use them for work again in the future?

After you have done your homework, choosing the right contractor will be simple.

Stop by Morrison’s Home Improvements in The 1870's House at 25 Pittsfield Rd. in Lenox, MA, to see their Simply Amazing Brand New Showroom, showcasing their top of the line products, as well as to read some of their testimonial letters from hundreds of satisfied customers. Morrison's is practicing COVID-19 safety protocols but still are available to help you with your next big project!

Call (413) 442-3001 today for a free estimate.