How to Spot a Dishonest Contractor
It’s no accident contractors have such a bad reputation – they get more fraud complaints than any other workers! Here’s how to find a reputable one – and skip the scammers.
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You Will Need
- A telephone
- A computer
Steps
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Step 1
Make the first move
If a contractor comes to you unsolicited looking for business, he may not be reputable. Ignore the contractor who comes knocking on your door with an offer and go find someone on your own.
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Step 2
Ask a test question
Test him with a question you already know the answer to. For example, if there’s a crack in your wall, say something like, ‘I hope I don’t need to re-sheetrock the entire room!’ If he responds, ‘You very well might,’ he’s probably trying to scam you.
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Take your time! A shady contractor will pressure you to make a quick decision, because he knows if you have the opportunity to ask around, you’ll change your mind. A good contractor will let you think it over without any pressure.
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Step 3
Ask for references
Ask for references from three other customers from three different time periods. Even a bad contractor can do a good job once, and you want to prove that he’s consistent. If he hesitates to give you the information, run!
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Step 4
Get his card
Ask for his business card; if there’s a post-office box instead of a real address, that’s a red flag. Call the number on the card and make sure he picks up; some numbers are voicemail services you can’t trace.
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Ask to see a copy of his insurance policies, which should include both liability and workman’s compensation. If he doesn’t have any and hurts himself on the job, or breaks something, you could be financially responsible!
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Step 5
Check him out
Call the Better Business Bureau and see if there are any complaints about him, and the State Board of Contractors to make sure he’s reputable. Also, search for him online; if he’s a scammer, others may have posted complaints about him.
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Step 6
Get it in writing
Never trust a contractor who says you don’t need a written contract. And don’t sign a blank contract or one with blank spots; he could write anything in there later and you would be responsible.
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Step 7
Ask about permits
If there’s a lot of construction work, odds are you’ll need permits from your city or county. If he says you don’t need them, or insists you get them, that’s a sign he’s not licensed.
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Look for a contractor who’s been in business for more than three years. If he’s been around a while, chances are he’ll still be around if something goes wrong and he needs to fix it.
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Step 8
Pay by check
A reputable contractor will never insist on cash or a big deposit. A reasonable down payment is 30% of the total cost. And don’t give the remainder of the money until the job is done and you’ve inspected it.
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Roofing contractors get the most complaints, followed by general contractors and home-remodeling contractors.
