Posts Tagged ‘hiring a contractor’
- How long have you been in business? Do with an established contractor, and check it out with consumer protection officials to see if there are any outstanding complaints on file.
- Are you licensed and registered with the state? Only 36 states require licensing for contractors. Check with your local building department or consumer protection agency to see what your state requirements are.
- How many projects like mine have you completed in the last year? Ask for a list.
- Will my project require a permit? Most projects require permits; a competent contractor will get all the necessary permits before starting the work. Don’t hire him if he asks you to get permits.
- May I have a list of your references? Call at least 3 previous clients and ask to see their results. Ask the clients if there were unexpected costs, if the work was completed on time, if the workers showed up on time, and if they would recommend the contractor again.
- May I see other jobs in progress? Buyer beware if you are not allowed to see the site or if the contractor doesn’t have any other work.
- Will you be using subcontractors on the project? If yes, then ask to meet with them. Ask the subcontractors if they were treated fairly and paid on time. Subcontractors could put a “mechanic’s lien” on your property if the contractor doesn’t pay them.
- What type of insurance do you carry? They should have personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage. Ask for the copies of insurance certification. Don’t work with the contractor if he doesn’t carry insurance.
- What kind of down payment do you require? Try to limit your down payment. Some state laws limit the amount of money a contractor can request as down payment.
- What kind of payment schedule do you offer? Try to get this in writing on the contract (always sign a contract), and try to make payments due during the project upon completion of a certain amount of work. Never make a final payment or sign an affidavit of final release until you are satisfied with the work and know the subcontractors and suppliers have been paid.