Need a handyman to help with home improvements but don’t know who to hire?
This business ranks in the top tier of the most complained about industry among consumers. With a few preventative steps, you can ensure that your project goes smoothly.
First, a good contractor will have plenty of satisfied customers so get a referral from people or websites you trust. Reliable contractors should be able to provide a detailed, written bid with start date, deadlines and payment expectations. When you’re ready to hire, put the terms in writing to prevent any misunderstanding.
Depending on size of the job, consider the following questions before any work begins.
- How long have you been in business?
- What is your experience with projects like mine?
- Do you have proof of liability insurance?
- Are you a licensed contractor?
- Are you the one who will be performing the work or do you subcontract?
- Is your work guaranteed and for how long?
- Do you require any money before the work is complete?
- Can I purchase my own materials?
- How do you price your work (hourly, project, minimums)?
- How do you handle overages or additional work that arises?
To weed through the less-desirable, use this checklist as a guide when interviewing potential contractors.