Selecting A Contractor

Selecting the right contractor is a large responsibility. Here are a few key questions to ask the contractor who you are considering for the job.

Q: What is the contractor's street address?
A: Be careful of contractors with only a post office box. If the contractor has an office, stop in and visit. Contractors with troubled histories have been known to close and setup a new office every two or three months. Stability is important.

Q: How long has the contractor been in business?
A: Do not confuse this question with how long a contractor has been a tradesman. An individual may have been a painter for 20 years, but actually been in business for one month.

Q: Does the contractor have the resources to complete the job as scheduled?
A: While you cannot expect the contractor to share his financial information with you, use your discretion to determine if you believe he can complete your job as schedule. Ask him.

Q: Does the contractor have licenses and insurance?
A: A satisfactory answer to this question can have you avoid problems in the future. If your contractor is not properly licensed, your local inspections department may require the work be re-done by a licensed contractor at your expense. Check with the State Contractors Board.

Q: Can the contractor provide you a list of references?
A: You will want to see a list of satisfied customers with, at minimum, telephone numbers. Satisfied customers are most important to consider when qualifying a contractor. Don't just get the references. CHECK THEM!

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