Hiring a Commercial Contractor: What Property Managers Should Look For

Finding the Right Fit

As a property manager, you're trusting a contractor with your building, your budget, and your tenants' safety. The wrong hire can mean delays, cost overruns, and work that doesn't hold up. Here's what we think matters most — and yeah, we're biased, but we've also been on both sides of the equation.

1. Commercial Experience Specifically

Residential and commercial work are different worlds. Commercial properties have different codes, materials, access constraints, and tenant considerations. A great residential remodeler may struggle with a multi-unit HVAC repair or a stucco restoration on a three-story building. Ask specifically about commercial project history.

2. Clear, Upfront Pricing

Get a detailed written estimate before any work starts. A good contractor will break down materials, labor, and timeline — not just give you a lump number. Be cautious of bids that are significantly lower than others; that usually means corners will be cut or change orders are coming.

3. Communication Style

This is the #1 complaint we hear from property managers about previous contractors: "They just stopped returning my calls." Before you hire, pay attention to how responsive they are during the estimate process. That's their behavior at their best — it only goes downhill from there if they're already slow.

4. Insurance and Licensing

This is non-negotiable. Ask for proof of general liability insurance and workers' comp. In Vermont, contractors need to be registered with the Secretary of State. If they can't produce documentation quickly, move on.

5. References from Similar Projects

Ask for references from commercial clients, not just homeowners. Better yet, ask if you can see a completed commercial project in person. The quality of finish work, attention to detail, and cleanliness of the job site tells you more than any sales pitch.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Demands large deposits upfront (more than 10-20%)
• Won't provide a written contract or scope of work
• Pushes to start immediately without proper planning
• No online presence or reviews
• Vague about timeline or materials

Our Approach

At Maple Valley Contracting, we try to be the opposite of every bad contractor story. We provide detailed estimates, communicate proactively with photos and updates, and charge what we say we're going to charge. We specialize in commercial maintenance and repair because that's what we're best at — and we think it shows. If you're looking for a new contractor, we'd love to earn your business.