Finding a Contractor
Always take the time to evaluate the contractor who may be doing the job. Every disaster has its share of con artists trying to take advantage of disaster victims.
Talk to building officials. Be particularly cautious when selecting a contractor to repair your chimney. Not everyone is qualified to repair or rebuild a chimney. It takes specialized skill and training.
The State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) recommends the following steps when hiring a contractor:
- Be wary of contractors soliciting business door-to-door.
- Ask contractors if they have done this type of repair work before, if they will be purchasing necessary permits, and if the work will be inspected.
- Determine if a contractor, electrician or plumber is registered or licensed. All contractors doing business in the state are required to register. While not a guarantee of performance, registration does mean the contractor has minimal liability insurance and a surety bond that can protect the consumer if there is a problem.
For information, call L&I's toll-free number 1-800-647-0982 or visit the L&I web site. The caller can also find out how long the contractor has been in business and whether there have been any complaints against the bond.
- Try to get three separate bids on the job.
- Ask for references.
- Obtain a written contract.
- Be cautious in dealing with a contractor who asks for a large down payment.
- Pay the contractor at the end of the job, or pay only for the portion of the job that has been completed.
- Avoid making final payment until you have received a lien release.
Additional information to consider:
- Check for a permanent place of business, telephone number, tax I.D. number and business license.
- Look for a company with a proven track record that readily offers client references and a list of completed projects. Call these clients to find out whether they were satisfied.
- Check to see if the contractor is a member of any regional or national industry associations.
- Contact your local Better Business Bureau to check for a business report or any complaints that have been filed on a contractor.
- Have the contractor explain his or her project supervision and quality control procedures. Request the name of the person who will be in charge, how many workers will be required and the estimated completion time.
- Carefully read and understand any warrantee offered and watch for provisions that would void it. The lowest bid is not always the best option. Remember, a price is only one criterion for selecting a contractor. Professionalism and quality workmanship also should weigh heavily in your decision.
Last Modified: Thursday, 23-Mar-2006 20:31:39 EST