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There are plenty of people that simply shudder at the very mention of the contractor, having had one or two shady experience in the past and finding their views on the whole subject tainted. Which of course is understandable – especially given the fact that it will always be 100% impossible to eliminate dodgy dealers from the market altogether, meaning there’s always that risk of running into one.
However, the good news is that this risk can be reduced to the most negligible levels simply be exercising a little proactivity and common sense. There are only a few things that a contractor needs to get right to put your mind at ease, so here’s a look at five simple things to look out for and know you’re in for a safe ride:
References
This is usually the deal-sealer to end them all – you can eliminate any potential contractors right away that don’t have glowing feedback to show off. Feedback and testimonials are the only evidence you have that they’re as good as their word – assuming of course they actually are. Case studies and write-ups are usually ok, but if you really want to be sure you should contact their past and present clients to ask what they really think about the service.
Well-Connected
Never forget that there isn’t a single contractor in the world that has all the tools, supplies and equipment needed to carry out every job. As such, you could say that a contractor is only ever as strong and their network – as in the subcontractors and partners they’re connected with. You can ask for details of this in the form of a list, or just ask them outright who they work with on larger or more complex projects.
Dependability
It’s one thing for them to tell you they will carry out a job in a certain amount of time and for a set price, but are they willing to put their money where their mouth is? Most will of course do so as standard, but it’s always a good idea to look into whether or not the contractor backs their promises of dependability with a guarantee. As in they have to keep their end of the deal or you don’t have to keep yours…i.e. payment.
Price Promise
Speaking of which, you also need to be assured that you are paying a fair price and that the service will not be undercut by a comparable rival. Don’t get too carried away here though as prices that seem too good to be true most often are – if you pay peanuts you’ll not be happy with what you get in return. Compare the market and find an average – this is what you should expect to pay.
Personable
And finally, there’s nothing to say that a miserable and frankly vile soul of a person can’t be a good contractor, but as this is someone you’re going to be dealing with for a while and in relation to a very important project, you should at least try to find one that you can get on with.
About The Author
Jeremy Goodwill wrote this guest post for ClinardHome.com, a home improvement service provider based in Nashville, Tennessee.
