Specialty contractors include painters, electricians, plumbers, roofers, finish carpenters (for fine-detail carpentry projects), framing carpenters (for large-scale carpentry projects), cabinet makers, pavers, drywall contractors, carpet contractors, and flooring contractors.

2torial #0506: Learn2 Hire a Contractor Narrow your search As with any search for a professional service, start with the most tried-and-true method: word of mouth. Ask your friends if they can recommend a specific contractor. You can also try local architects, building inspectors, or independent building material suppliers. Even your mortgage officer might know someone. If you're still coming up short, check the yellow pages (general contractors are usually listed under "Building," while specialty contractors go under their specialty). If you have access to the Internet, a large number of Websites are dedicated to researching and recommending contractors. (Try typing "find building contractor" in your search engine.) If you use one of these sites, make sure it's independently operated and not tied to an actual construction company. Step 2