Home Improvements In Your Plans? BBB Has 8 Tips For Finding Trustworthy Contractors

As the days get longer, many homeowners may be considering projects to repair or improve their homes or yards. In many cases, that means hiring a contractor.

The Better Business Bureau can help consumers find trustworthy contractors. BBB Business Reviews can alert you to any complaints consumers have filed against businesses, and they also can provide details about the business that you may want to check out.

When considering a home improvement project, it's always good to check with friends and relatives, but you need to research contractors thoroughly before you sign a contract or give them any money.

The BBB's Request A Quote service allows consumers to obtain information from one or more BBB Accredited Businesses. These companies have pledged to comply with BBB standards, such as advertising honestly, honoring promises and responding to consumers' complaints.

The BBB's eight tips for hiring contractors are:

1. Ask at least three companies for bids based on the same requirements. Discuss the bids in detail with each contractor and ask them about variations in pricing. The lowest-priced bid may not be the best.
2. Ask about the company’s insurance. Does it carry worker’s compensation, property damage and liability insurance? Ask for proof of insurance or for the name of an insurance agent you can call to verify the coverage.
3. Ask whether the contractor is licensed for the type of work you need. Does the firm meet the bonding requirements of your town, county or state?
4. Check with local authorities to find out whether permits are needed. The contractor should be aware of any permits or inspections that may be required.
5. Ask the contractor to provide a lien waiver when the job is completed. A lien waiver is a statement that all suppliers and contractors have been paid for materials and labor. 
6. Ask for a contract and read it. Get any verbal promises in writing. Make sure the contract includes the start date and expected completion date.
7. Don’t pay the entire amount due until the work is completed and you are satisfied. Be careful if a contractor wants to be paid in full up front. In some cases, a contractor may need a down payment to cover materials. But the bulk of the money should not be due until the work is complete.
8. Always check a company’s BBB Business Review at www.bbb.org.

A BBB video covering the eight tips is available at http://youtu.be/PBn5M8_RkP0.

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