Choosing a Contractor

The most important item on a proposal is the company of which tendered the proposal. You should get as much information about the company and their history as possible. A few basics are length of time established as a company; reputation in the industry; credentials relating to the industry; market posture (residential, commercial, builder oriented); financial status; design philosophy and service ability.

Due to the fact that some company owners have worked for another company at one time or another doesn’t insure he will last the length of your warranty. The actual time one has been a business owner will give credibility to his warranty. If the business has been established for less than five years, the odds of making his first five are stacked against him. Who will back his warranty and service your system? NOTE: All warranties issued by manufacturers in the irrigation industry are “TRADE WARRANTIES”. These warranties are between the manufacturer and the company that purchased the equipment wholesale, not the consumer.

The irrigation industry like others has professional trade associations. Being a member shows commitment to the industry, knowledge of industry standards and a peer group of established business owners. Members of these associations are generally the leaders and contributors to their industry.

Check the company’s credentials and industry background. After all, you are considering employing them for a significant amount of money. Having a license should be the beginning of their education, not the end.

Every company has their own niche in their market. Some specialize in the Builder Market, which is generally a lower quality, hit and run market. These companies survive on low budgets, which translates to less material and labor costs. Unfortunately this also translates to poor design and little or no service after the installation.

Ask a lot of questions. A contractor should be willing to spend upwards of an hour presenting his case for your business and readily answer all your questions. If there are some specifics you are requiring that do not appear on his printed proposal. Make sure he details, in writing, your requirements on the proposal. What you see is what you get.

In Texas, all contractors are required by law to include a printed warranty, license number and the statement “Irrigation in Texas is regulated by the TEXAS COMMISSION on ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY; P.O. Box 13087, MC-178; Austin, TX 78711-3087 (512) 239-6719.”