How to Hire a Trim Carpenter

Determine the projects you want the trim contractor to complete. Are you looking to install interior doors, window and door casings, or ceiling moldings? Do you need to have cabinets or stair railings installed? Or are you looking for advanced interior work such as custom woodworking, built-in shelving or cabinetry, custom-made doors, large multipiece ceiling moldings, or site-built fireplace surrounds or mantels?

Price materials to give yourself a working knowledge of the costs of various alternatives, such as paint-grade moldings and doors vs. oak or other stain-grade material.

Ask friends and relatives for recommendations of good finish carpenters. Consider using a woodworking firm with a showroom for large projects.

Have several contractors come to your home to give estimates. Make sure that both you and the contractors have a complete understanding regarding the specific design of any specialized built-ins or other constructions. (Depending on the complexity of the work, this may be a cumbersome step, but it's essential to avoiding misunderstandings.)

Ask to see a sample of the contractor's work, particularly when you're planning intricate and involved trim, such as raised panel wainscoting or elaborate built-ins.

Ask for a list of prior customers as references. Contact these previous customers and ask if they were pleased with the work done.

Execute a contract that includes the cost, payment schedule, start date and completion date, as well as a complete description of the work to be done and materials to be used. Try to minimize up-front deposits, and keep your payment schedule aligned with the pace of work in place and materials delivered to the site.