If your Contractor shows up like this… you might be in trouble!
How to protect yourself from bad contractors.
A whole slew of questions popped into my mind when I seen this the other day. The first being, what other corners is that installer willing to cut in terms of construction quality, meeting building code requirements and quality building materials? Yikes!
How to Protect yourself from Fly-By-Night Contractors & Bad Installers?
- Do some research. Don’t be afraid to measure your project yourself and use a cost calculator to help you estimate the job. That way you will be on the same page when speaking with your selected contractor.
- Check how long the company has been in business
- Check to see if they have an actual business address
- Ask them if they are certified or have a license when appropriate
- Ascertain that they have the necessary insurance coverage
- Ask for picture of past projects that are similar to yours
- Check their website- Is it current? Does it look professional? Does it offer helpful advice, even if you don’t end up using their company?
- Beware of the lowest bidder!
- Follow your gut – if something doesn’t feel right, keep looking
Lower is not always better!
If a contractor did show up at your home like this, might we suggest it is a case of choosing a contractor that was the lowest bidder. Lower is not always better! If we could impart one piece of advice on people considering a major renovation or building project it would be BEWARE OF THE LOWEST BIDDER!
Most contractors are generally faced with many of the same material costs and overheads. If one bid is considerably less the the others, then you should be wondering, What is being sacrificed for them to be able to deliver the same project for such a low price? Are they licensed, bonded and insured? Will they be there to service the warranty?
Know your rights when starting home renovations or repairs.
Protect yourself and your home by knowing your rights before starting a home renovation. Learn how to hire a reliable contractor.
Hiring a Good Contractor
Hiring an experienced and knowledgeable renovator is key to a successful renovation project. You are placing what may be the largest asset you own – your home – in someone else’s hands, along with your dreams. So you need to find a renovator you can trust and work with.
Remember you want a contractor that will keep your best interests in mind at all times. If they wouldn’t do it on their home, they definitely shouldn’t do it on yours! http://www.chba.ca/renovating/hiring-contractor.aspx
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