Remodeling contractors can help you do everything from the small, like finding the right lighting, to the huge, like bathroom additions. Finding the right remodeling professionals is another story. All of us know someone who has had a bad experience with even professional remodelers, especially before the existence of the world wide web where resources for finding reputable professional remodeling services are plentiful.

Avoid the all-too-often nightmare scenario associated with professional remodelers with questionable business ethics by using the following resources:

1. Pre-screened professional remodeling databases;

2. Checklists and standards; and

3. Websites devoted to exposing any bad press of any remodeling companies you consider.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Remodeler databases can be a great place to start your search for professional remodelers

There are a ton of databases for remodeling contractors. If you plan on finding one through a national database and not through word-of-mouth, be sure you look for services that have some sort of pre-screening process in place. Keep in mind that the pre-screening process is not a guarantee by the database company that you'll be happy with the work so find a set of guidelines that works for your job.

I recommend: Find thousands of pre-screened remodelers through Servicemagic. Get up to three no-obligation quotes from ReliableRemodeler's database.

Make your own checklist and look for remodeling professionals with national certification

Looking for companies who adhere to a strict set of rules is always a good idea but making a checklist can help you set up standards that are specific to your needs. A checklist should be very thorough and should cover all topics ranging from where your belonging will be stored during remodeling to exactly how you expect the remodel to look when complete.

I recommend: Angie's List can help you develop an interview checklist to take when you meet prospective contractors. Check the National Association of the Remodeling Industry's website for contractors who adhere to highly professional conduct, continuing education and a commitment to ethics.

Search for reports on specific professional remodelers through consumer sites

There are always two sides to every story, but a simple way to find out if a remodeling company has any customer feedback -- positive or negative -- is to go to consumer review sites. Finding information about any given company is as easy as typing in the company name and hitting the search button.

I recommend: Contractor.com offers a remodeling professional listing by zip code, city, state or company name. Ripoff Report will help find company-specific info if you already have a name or remodeling company in mind.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before seriously considering remodeling companies, ask the lead contractor for his personal contact number. Call the number and find out how easily you can get in touch with him or her. If you have trouble reaching your professional remodeling contractor from the beginning, imagine how much trouble you'll have reaching him should a dispute arise.