If you’re reading this, you’re likely a homeowner looking to build or replace a deck. Investing thousands of dollars in a new deck makes choosing the right contractor essential. But how do you find the right contractor? And what are the risks of hiring the wrong one? This article will guide you through selecting the best contractor for your project. At the end, we’ll share a case study illustrating the consequences of choosing the wrong one.
The Risks of Hiring the Wrong Contractor
Choosing the wrong contractor can turn into a nightmare. They may:
- Disappear with your money,
- Exceed your budget,
- Construct the deck improperly, leaving you with a hazardous structure.
As a deck contractor in Maryland with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen it all. The two most common issues are:
- Poor craftsmanship – The final result looks subpar, and the contractor vanishes without accountability.
- Unsafe construction – A poorly built deck can be a serious hazard, and fixing it will cost you even more money.
How to Find the Right Contractor
Since you can’t always know exactly who you’re hiring, thorough research is critical. Follow these steps:
1. Check Reviews and Websites
- Search for deck builders in your area and read their online reviews.
- Visit their websites; a professional website reflects their skill and credibility.
- Look for project photos to assess their previous work.
2. Verify Licensing and Insurance
- In Maryland, deck builders must be licensed and insured through the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC).
- The MHIC license number should be clearly displayed on their website (e.g., MHIC # 145128).
- Always request a copy of their license and insurance before signing a contract.
3. Schedule Estimates
- Obtain at least three estimates to compare.
- Some contractors charge for estimates, while others, like myself, provide them for free.
- Ask detailed questions about design, materials, and construction techniques.
- Be wary of contractors who try to convince you to skip permits. If a permit is required, it must be obtained.
Questions to Ask During the Estimate
- How long have you been in business?
- Are you licensed and insured? Can you provide documentation? (A “no” should be a dealbreaker.)
- How many decks have you built?
- What brand of decking do you use? Can I see samples?
- Is the framing lumber pressure-treated? (They should say “yes.”)
- Will you handle the permit process? (The contractor should be responsible for this.)
- Do you call a utility marking service before starting work? (If they say “no” or don’t know, they are not qualified.)
Evaluating the Contractor’s Professionalism
After the estimate, assess the contractor’s demeanor and expertise:
- Did they answer all your questions satisfactorily?
- Did they appear knowledgeable and trustworthy?
- Did they conduct themselves professionally?
- Will they be responsive if issues arise after the project is completed?
Comparing Estimates
- Avoid choosing solely based on the lowest price; a significantly lower quote could indicate hidden costs or inferior work.
- Ensure all estimates cover the same scope of work.
- If something isn’t included in the quote, clarify it before proceeding.
Case Study: A Costly Mistake
Decks are one of the most frequently misbuilt structures inspectors encounter. Unlike plumbing or electrical work, deck construction doesn’t require specialized certification. As a result, many contractors with minimal experience attempt to build decks, often leading to serious mistakes.
A Real Example
In April 2024, I was called to assess a deck built by a licensed contractor that a homeowner suspected was unstable. Upon inspection, I found numerous issues, including:
- Improperly supported deck posts – Placed on the ground instead of footers.
- Illegal notching on posts
- Incorrect beam attachment
- Shallow footings – Should be 30” below grade.
- Improper house attachment
- Lack of support under staircase corners
- Missing upper landing on stairs
- Insufficient stair stringers
- Incorrectly installed railings
The homeowner had already paid $15,000, and the deck was so poorly built that nearly the entire structure needed reconstruction. Worse yet, the contractor did not obtain a permit, which likely meant they were cutting corners. The homeowner was now facing the added expense of hiring another contractor to rebuild the deck correctly.
Choosing the Right Contractor
For the past decade I have built countless decks to the highest standards possible. I refuse to compromise on quality. I have had several inspection authorities offer me a job as an inspector because of my demonstration of code knowledge. In fact, building inspectors often comment on my work stating it’s overbuilt. I build to the same standards I want done at my own house. Take a look at these photos below. These projects speak for themselves:
For over a decade, I have built decks to the highest standards. Inspectors frequently commend my work, often stating it exceeds code requirements. Here’s what they’ve said:
- “Are you putting a roof over this one? It could definitely support one.”
- “I wish more guys built like you; it would make my job easier.”
- “You really didn’t want this one to move!”
When hiring a contractor, do your research, ask the right questions, and compare estimates carefully. A well-built deck is a long-term investment—don’t let the wrong contractor turn it into a costly mistake.
Contact Cavallo Home Services today to get you free estimate!
