Alright, you're thinking about adding a deck, or maybe replacing an old one. That's a great investment for your Flagstaff home, especially with our beautiful summers. But before you jump in, you need to know how to pick the right person for the job. I've seen a lot of decks built in this town, good and bad, and I'm here to tell you what separates the pros from the problems.
What to Ask a Potential Deck Builder
When you're talking to contractors, don't be shy. This is your money and your home. You've got to ask the tough questions upfront. Here's what I'd want to know if I were hiring someone:
Are you licensed and insured in Arizona? This isn't optional. They need to be licensed by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) and carry general liability insurance. Ask for their ROC number and proof of insurance. If they hem and haw, walk away. Period.
Can you provide references? And I don't mean just one or two. I want to talk to at least three past clients. Ask those clients about communication, timelines, quality of work, and if there were any issues, how they were handled.
What's your experience with local building codes? Flagstaff has specific requirements, especially for snow load. You don't want a deck that's going to collapse under a heavy winter. Make sure they know the local rules inside and out.
Who will be doing the actual work? Is it them, their employees, or subcontractors? If it's subs, are they also licensed and insured? You need to know who's on your property.
What's your warranty? A reputable builder will stand behind their work. Ask about both a structural warranty and a craftsmanship warranty. Get it in writing.
How do you handle permits and inspections? A good contractor takes care of all the necessary permits and schedules inspections. Don't let them tell you it's your job. If they suggest skipping permits, that's a massive red flag.
What to Look for in a Quote
You'll probably get a few different quotes, and they won't all look the same. Don't just pick the cheapest one. That's a common mistake that often costs more in the long run. Here's what a good quote should include:
Detailed scope of work: It should clearly outline everything they're going to do. Demolition, framing, decking material, railing type, stairs, footings, fasteners – every single detail.
Materials specified: Don't just say