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There is no 100% guaranteed way to
avoid a bad contractor,
but there are things you can do to help yourself find a good contractor.
The following are warning signs
of contractors to avoid.
- 100% Downpayment. Good contractors ask for a partial downpayment,
but watch out for contractors who require 100% up front, or downpayments
made directly to the sales person, as opposed to their building company.
- Few or no references. Good contractors should be able to refer several
happy customers.
- No contractor's license. All contractors in Vanderburgh County are
required by law to have and maintain their license. Be sure to confirm
this information at the Building Commissioner's office.
- No proof of insurance. The law requires contractors to have insurance.
If the contractor has no insurance, homeowners can be liable for accidents
that occur on the job- even ones that harm the contractor!
- No permanent address for business. Most reputable contractors have
a permanent address for their company.
- The bid seems too low... way too low! Be sure to compare apples
with apples by insisting each contractor bids on the exact same work.
- The Better Business Bureau. Even the best contractors can have people
file complaints. The smart consumer will find out how the complaints
were resolved.
- Bad accounts with suppliers. Most problems with contractors revolve
around their business practices, not their building abilities. A contractor's
suppliers and banks can be a good source to verify solid business
practices.
CHECK BEFORE HIRING A CONTRACTOR
Do your homework before you build
or remodel your home. Use this checklist to select a contractor you
can trust with your biggest investment and most valuable asset.
- Is the contractor a member of the Home Builders Association? Membership
in professional organizations is a way for contractors to invest in
their professionalism.
- Is the contractor licensed? This is required in Vanderburgh County,
and can be confirmed at the Building Commissioner's office.
- Can the contractors provide proof of Workers' Compensation and General
Liability Insurance? If not, you may be liable for construction-related
accidents on your premises. Reputable contractors encourage customers
to ask for this.
- Will the Contractor provide you with names of previous customers?
If so ask them key questions. If not, watch out!
- Have you seen the contractor's work, both completed and in progress?
Check for quality of workmanship and materials.
- Does the contractor have a good reputation with banks, suppliers,
and other builders? These can be good references for a contractor's
business practices.
- Will the contractor provide you with a complete and clearly written
contract? We strongly encourage you to insist on this.
- Have you called the Better Business Bureau? They can alert you to
any outstanding complaints against bad contractors.
- Are you able to communicate well with the contractor? Misguided
expectations cause the most complaints by customers.
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The information
provided on this website is for informational purposes only. Due to
complexities of applicable
building codes, construction
applications, and facts specific to each situation, individuals should
consult with
a qualified contractor regarding specific construction needs or concerns.
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