How to Choose Between a Contractor, Handyman, or Design Build for Your Construction Project in MN?

I will provide you with specific reasons for hiring each of these.

To begin, it's important to note that anyone providing services on your home is legally considered a contractor.

In Minnesota, single trade contractors generally do not require a contractor's license, except for certain trades like roofing and mechanical work, including electricians, plumbers, and HVAC companies. Nonetheless, they must be registered, as operating without registration is illegal under MN law.

"Design build" general contracting firms may partially self-perform, meaning they hire a designer and have staff who carry out some or all of the site work allowed under the contractor's license. This includes tasks like demolition, framing, drywall, tile installation, doors, windows, and millwork, while subcontracting the mechanical work. This is generally how we operate.

A residential construction general contractor usually engages independent designers, hires project managers, subcontracts all additional work, and manages the project internally, but some of them also self perform some of the work as in the above description. the main difference in this and the above is that they are more construction management focused than they are on design.

Restoration or exterior companies often focus on insurance claims. While they serve a specific niche, many experience high turnover and deliver subpar workmanship. It's crucial to thoroughly research these companies. Not all of them are problematic, but many are. A significant issue is that new companies frequently emerge after major hail events, but they may only last a season or two, jeopardizing your warranty.

Here's how to determine which one you require.

Residential general contractor - Your project requires multiple trades and is a substantial project like a full kitchen remodel, bathroom remodel, whole home remodel, or new construction. In this case, the homeowner often brings a design from an independent designer, and the contractor builds it as designed, sometimes with ongoing designer input and sometimes not.

"Design-build" general contracting firms - big projects like the above or bigger and need more high-end design attention. i.e., Acadian Building and Remodeling

A reputable handyman - light painting, hanging some art, fixing a deck board, replacing doorknobs, etc. These guys have to be licensed in MN as well unless they work for free.

Window and door outlets (extensively advertised) - Full window renovation for your home. (Tip for windows: reach out to a smaller remodeling firm such as Acadian Building and Remodeling in Stillwater. They will offer the precise window you want and charge a fair price while sustaining their business well, unlike a large corporation with a multi-million-dollar advertising budget.) These companies can be just fine and may be the better option in some situations.

Siding and roofing companies - When seeking a contractor for siding or roofing projects not related to insurance claims, it's often advisable to choose a remodel contractor. Alternatively, opt for an exteriors contractor whose primary focus isn't solely on insurance work. This distinction will be clear in their marketing approach. It's important to have the ability to design your project effectively, visualize the final outcome, and feel confident that you are considered a valued customer, not just a statistic in a sales objective.

Handling insurance claims requires careful consideration. Conduct thorough research and hire an "exteriors" or "restoration" company that transparently shares how they handle your claim numbers and supplements. All funds allocated for the project, excluding O and P numbers, should be directed to the contractor performing the work. Each line item should correspond to a completed task, documented and verifiable. Reputable companies that respect you as a person and a customer will be willing to provide this transparency.

Contact Acadian, and I'll suggest local companies that I consider trustworthy. Although this doesn't guarantee a flawless experience, it shows that I have confidence in their leadership's integrity and assured quality of work.

I hope this is helpful. If you have more detailed questions, feel free to ask me directly, and I will guide you appropriately, even if it means referring you to another reliable contracting company.

In my view, anyone in business who earns well and provides honest, quality work is doing great. Continue the good work!

Acadian Building and Remodeling is here to help with all inquiries. Get in touch!