| |
| A low prices without quality is no bargain. You should always consider the reputation of the contractor, the grade of materials, and the quality and timeliness of the job. Remember the lowest price is not always the best deal. |
| |
| You should get at least 3 different bids before hiring a contractor. This will help you to compare prices and come up with a fair market price for your home improvement project. |
| |
| Ask each contractor to send 3-5 references along with their proposal, call each reference and ask about the quality and timeliness of their work. If the job was an exterior job you can consider driving by and seeing the work for yourself. |
| |
| Check with The Better Business Bureau to make sure the contractor you’re considering doesn’t have a history of disputes with clients. |
| |
| Before the work begins, be sure to have your contractor have his insurance company send you a certificate on insurance. Make sure that it comes from the insurance company and not a copy sent by the contractor. This is the most important thing you can do to protect yourself from the possibility of being sue should anybody be hurt on your property. |
| |
Be sure you have a detailed contract of the work to be done.
This should include: |
 Details of the jobs process |
| Materials to be used |
| Any warranties, Be sure all warranties are in writing |
| The contractors business name and address |
| A start and completion date |
| The contractors signature |
Be sure any changes or additions be done in writing.
(Make sure they include details and costs of the changes) |
|
| |
| Always pay by check, never with cash. |
| |
| Never pay a deposit before you have a signed contract. |
| |
| Never pay more than 30 percent of the estimated cost in advance. |
| |
| Never pay the final payment until the work is completed to your satisfaction. |
| |
