Avoiding Bad Renovation Contractors – The List
Do your homework and hire professionals even if they cost a bit more money. Avoid the fly-by-nighters by following the following guidelines, and you should end up with a good contractor, although there are no guarantees.
- Obtain detailed fixed price quotes
- Always get references and call and visit those references
- Check BBB for references and reviews
- Look for online reviews
- Educate yourself
- Understand what and how the job will be done
- Pay for materials yourself and arrange for delivery
- Pay the contractor only for work performed
- Include a 10% holdback to cover issues
- If progress payments are required, tie them into performance milestones
- Never pay in advance; find another contractor if this is an issue
- On large jobs, penalty amounts are ok
- Take pictures of the starting area, progress, and final product
- Document any issues in writing with pictures or video
- Identify issues immediately
If you feel uncomfortable about any of the issues, the contractor, or his work ethic, then it is time to move to another contractor before you commit and award the contract.
Large vendors of renovation materials like Lowes and Home Depot have many installers who work as contractors and come recommended by these stores. In fact, all of your financial dealings are usually with the supplier, i.e., Lowes, for the material and the installation. They guarantee the work and offer a level of protection that many small contractors cannot provide.
If you have additional comments or suggestions, please leave a comment, and we will add them to the list.
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