(1) Choose a contractor that is experienced and reliable.

(2) Always hire a contractor that has the proper licensing and insurance. Ask to see written verification of both.

(3) As for the customer references. The importance of checking references cannot be overstated. A good contractor will be proud of his reputation and eagerly provide names and phone numbers of happy customers.

(4) Be careful when comparing quotes. If one bid is much lower than others make sure the contractor can really deliver. A low bid is not necessarily a good bid. You usually get what you pay for.

(5) Plan for extras. Anytime you’re making an addition to your existing home it is important to allow a small contingency of about 10% to pay for any extra items you may add as the project goes along.

(6) Buy the best sunroom you can afford. Paying more up front for a high quality sunroom will save you money in the long run. Buying a cheap sunroom that is poorly constructed may simply mean you have to replace the whole thing in a few years. Use the highest quality materials possible to ensure your sunroom is practical, beautiful and useful.

(7) Hire a company that you feel comfortable with. It is important that you feel the company is honest, ethical and they can be easily reached not only before and during, but after the job is done.

(8) Communicate often with your contractor during the project. If you have any changes, questions or concerns, communicate them. It is better to handle issues while materials, tools and labor are readily available and it could give you the end result you desire with less cost involved.

(9) If you have any changes, be sure to get written documentation on changes, cost and time, so that both you and your contractor are protected.

(10) Require that any representative consulting with you on your project completely understand every nuance about their products and services, product features and benefits, installation specifications, warranty information and the like. This will be of value in identifying potential issues before any work is started.

(11) Do not help contractors or their workers and do not lend them your tools. If a worker is hurt while you are assisting (e.g., holding a ladder) or is hurt using one of your tools, you may be liable via a “tort claim” by the worker or contractor.