How Not to Get Nailed

Contractor Red Flags

• Contractors without a valid license.
• A contractor without his own insurance covering accidental damage that might occur on the job.
• Contractors asking for large down payments ahead of completing at least some work (for example, electrical), or to cover building materials. Many contractors have 30 days to pay their suppliers.
• Anyone who won't provide a contract specifying work completion and amounts paid.
• A contractor without a valid address and phone number, or with just an answering service. Ask for a cellphone number and know how to find a contractor in the case he goes missing without completing the work.
• Someone unwilling to provide references of past work. Any good contractor will be happy to do so.
• Contractors knocking at the door offering discounts because they're working in the area, or reduced rates if they can advertise on your property.
• A contractor quoting prices over the phone. Costs for each job are very specific, and need to be assessed at the place of completion.