Whether you’re fixing a small plumbing leak or building a home addition, hiring the wrong contractor can come with serious consequences. Not only could you end up paying for project delays, unnecessary add-ons and shoddy work — or in the case of a no-show, no work at all — but in some cases, you could even set yourself up for more expensive repairs or put your home and family at risk. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to ensure you’re hiring a trustworthy, qualified service professional.
Avoid Scams
Be wary of any contractor who demands money up front, pressures you for a quick decision or goes door-to-door in your neighborhood looking for business. A reputable contractor will never ask for cash or require full payment for a job before it’s started. And fly-by-night contractors are known to solicit work they never plan to deliver.
Do Your Homework
Always interview at least three contractors before making a hiring decision.
Take the time to read verified online ratings and reviews about service professionals in your area. And be sure to request and check references from every prospect. For cosmetic projects, request before and after photos.
And if you’re hiring for a big project like landscape design or a home addition or remodel, ask to personally visit completed projects in your area.
Check Credentials
Many states require contractors to uphold a state or local trade license to perform work.
Where this applies, verify the validity of every prospective hire’s licensure through the appropriate regulatory agency.
Also, ask every contractor to provide proof of bonding and liability and worker’s compensation insurance. These are not only important indicators of quality and reliability, they’re also designed to protect you should an accident occur on your property.
Ask Questions
In addition to asking for references and proof of license and insurance, you should ask every contractor three standard questions in your initial interview. A service professional’s answers to these questions will help to determine whether they’re a good fit for your project:
How long have you been in this business?
What is your experience with projects like mine?
Can I get a contract and all change orders in writing?
First, a professional who’s been in business for a while will not only have more experience than someone new to the field, but they will also be more likely to have worked out the kinds of administrative kinks that cause project delays, budget overages and other issues. Second, a professional with a great deal of experience working on projects like yours may be most likely to complete the project to your satisfaction. And third, getting a formal, detailed contract — and getting all subsequent promises and agreements in writing — is one of the best ways to avoid miscommunication and ensure a successful outcome.
If a contractor refuses to formalize a contract, this is a red flag. And it’s a good indicator that you should hire a different service professional.
Trust Your Gut
Sometimes, even the most qualified contractor will simply rub you the wrong way. Trust your gut. Don’t settle for a contractor you’re not comfortable with. And make the most of tools like Angie’s List to find the information and peace of mind you need to hire home service professionals with confidence.