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Tips for Hiring a Contractor

By
Real Estate Agent with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS® AB067539

Top 10 Tips for Hiring a Contractor 

1.    Get at least three written estimates.

2.    Get references and call to check on the work.

3.    Check with the local Chamber of Commerce or Better Business for complaints.

4.    Be sure that the contract states exactly what is to be done and how change orders will be handled.

5.    Make as small a downpayment as possible so you won't lose a lot if the contractor fails to complete the job.

6.    Be sure that the contractor has the necessary permits, licenses, and insurance.

7.    Be sure that the contract states when the work will be completed.

8.    Ask if the contractor's workers will do the entire job or whether subcontractors will do parts.

9. Be sure that the contract specifies the contractor will clean up after the job and be responsible for any damage.

10. Don't make the final payment until you're satisfied with the work.

Comments(2)

Debbie Gartner
The Flooring Girl - White Plains, NY
The Flooring Girl & Blog Stylist -Dynamo Marketers

This is a great list.  A great resource for finding good & honest contractors is Angieslist.com.

Dec 07, 2010 02:01 PM
Joan Whitebook
BHG The Masiello Group - Nashua, NH
Consumer Focused Real Estate Services

This is a great post and every single point you make is well taken.... especially these three points 

Make as small a downpayment as possible so you won't lose a lot if the contractor fails to complete the job. 

Be sure that the contractor has the necessary permits, licenses, and insurance.

Don't make the final payment until you're satisfied with the work.

Dec 07, 2010 03:08 PM