Choosing the Right Concrete Contractor in Paterson

Understanding Paterson’s Concrete Permit Requirements

The City of Paterson is governed by the State of New Jersey’s Uniform Construction Code (UCC), and therefore, it is required that permits be obtained for virtually all concrete installations. The Construction Code Enforcement Agency, which is responsible for permitting and conducting inspections, is located at 111 Broadway. All permit applications for concrete work must be submitted through this agency. Due to the fact that nearly all types of concrete work in New Jersey require permits regardless of the size of the project, property owners must first obtain the necessary permits and pay all outstanding municipal taxes prior to commencing a concrete project. Working with a reputable licensed residential concrete contractor, familiar with the requirements and regulations of the City of Paterson, will prevent costly delays and potential compliance issues.

Documentation Required for Successful Concrete Permits

Permit application success is dependent upon having all of the required documentation prepared, such as detailed project plans, the contractor’s licensure, and proof of tax compliance. Sub-code fees are included in the cost of the permit, as well as a $20 safe disposal fee for the removal of any debris. In addition to obtaining a construction permit, some concrete projects may require additional permits and/or measurement verification to determine compliance with zoning regulations. As previously stated, professional concrete installation permits generally require several inspections throughout the construction process. For these reasons, it is highly recommended that you hire an experienced contractor to manage all of the documentation related to the permitting process for your concrete project.

What Makes a Licensed Concrete Contractor a Professional?

A licensed concrete contractor has demonstrated their commitment to adhere to all applicable state and local laws and regulations. A reputable contractor will carry adequate insurance coverage for both liability and workers’ compensation. An established local concrete company will have developed working relationships with suppliers and will be knowledgeable regarding all applicable local material requirements. Additionally, a professional contractor will have all of the necessary equipment to complete a wide variety of projects ranging in size and complexity. Finally, a reliable contractor will provide you with a written estimate for your project and clearly define your project schedule.

How Do I Evaluate the Contractor’s Experience and Expertise?

You need to evaluate the contractor’s experience in the same type of project you plan to undertake. For example, if you are looking to build a new patio, look for contractors that specialize in patio construction. All concrete work in New Jersey must comply with certain minimum compressive strength requirements. Residential projects must have a minimum compressive strength of 3,000 pounds per square inch (psi). More importantly, the contractor needs to be familiar with the varying soil conditions found in Paterson and other cities in Passaic County. Such as, the contractor should be aware of the soil conditions surrounding areas like Eastside Park and the Great Falls Historic District. Experienced contractors are also up-to-date on the latest changes to building codes and inspection requirements. For example, an experienced foundation repair contractor will know how to address problems with unevenly laid foundations due to Paterson’s varying terrain.

Checking Out Contractors Via References and Reviews

When checking out contractors, it is beneficial to read the contractor’s reviews from previous customers. These reviews can give you insight into the contractor’s work ethic and professionalism. Ask the contractor to provide you with references from recent projects in areas such as the Riverside and Totowa sections of Paterson. Also, ask the contractor when the last time he/she worked on a similar project was. Make sure to check with the Better Business Bureau and online review platforms for complaints against the contractor. Also, drive by recently completed projects to see how the finished product looks over time.

Questions to Ask a Contractor

Ask the contractor if he/she has had any experience with building permits and inspections in the City of Paterson. Ask the contractor to explain how they mix and cure their concrete. Ask the contractor about their warranty and what kind of support service he/she would provide after the job is done. Ask the contractor how he/she would deal with inclement weather delays and changes to the project timeline. A reputable contractor will answer all of your technical questions confidently and clearly.

Understanding the Cost of Your Concrete Project and Timeline

Costs of concrete projects vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the project and the materials used. Quality contractors will provide you with detailed breakdowns of estimated costs, which will include materials, labor, permits, and disposal fees. Depending on where the project is located in Paterson, there could be special circumstances that may affect costs, such as accessibility concerns near major streets like Hamilton Avenue or Broadway. There are many seasonal variables in New Jersey’s climate that affect both the cost of materials and the time it takes to install them. It is strongly recommended that you receive multiple estimates to create an accurate budget for your project.

Contract Terms and Payment Schedules

Reputable contractors will provide you with a detailed written contract that describes all aspects of your project and the responsibilities of both parties. Payment terms should relate to the phases of your project and should not be a large upfront payment. A reputable contractor will also detail in the contract the materials, the timeline, the clean-up procedure, and the method for making any change orders. Established reputable contractors will also include in the contract details about warranties, including both material and craftsmanship warranties. A reputable contractor will never ask for the entire payment until the project is complete.

Ensuring Quality Work and Managing Your Project

Established contractors use consistent quality control methods throughout each stage of a project. To properly cure concrete, a contractor must follow the specified curing time and temperature range. A contractor should communicate with the City of Paterson Inspection Department promptly to secure approval for all stages of the project. A reputable contractor will provide you with a systematic means of communicating about the day-to-day progress of your project, as well as any unforeseen issues that arise during the course of the project. A contractor should keep their worksite clean and organized while performing the work.

Providing Post-Installation Support and Maintenance

Established contractors will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to properly care for and maintain your newly installed concrete. They will advise you on the best practices for sealing your concrete and protecting it from harsh winters in New Jersey. An established contractor will also provide you with the contact information to reach them for any future repairs or modifications to your original project. Many contractors will prioritize your call for any emergency repairs or additional work because they want to build a relationship with you. When you choose a contractor who wants to establish a long-term relationship with you, you will receive continued value from your investment.

Finalizing Your Selection

Carefully compare all of the proposals you received, evaluating not just the cost of each proposal, but the overall value and the qualifications of each contractor. Ensure that the contractor you select maintains current licensure and insurance coverage before signing any contracts. Make sure that you have a clear understanding of all of the responsibilities associated with securing permits and scheduling inspections. Use your intuition when assessing the contractor’s professionalism and communication style when you met with them initially. At Paterson Concrete Works, we strive to provide honest and professional concrete services in Paterson and surrounding communities.