Let Us Teach You: Before Hiring A Contractor

WHAT CONSUMERS SHOULD KNOW BEFORE HIRING ANY CONTRACTOR

• Do they have an actual business address?
• Check to make sure they are licensed with the California State Contractors License Board.
• Make sure the business name is the same one that is on the license.
• Do they have current Workers' Compensation and Liability Insurance?
• Check their rating with the Better Business Bureau
• Make certain that everything that was promised is written, in detail, on the contract - before you sign.
• Never, never, never pay with cash.
• Were you informed that building permits are required?
• Have they answered your questions? Do you feel comfortable with their answers?
• Ask for referrals - However, these may not be as valuable as visiting their current jobs. Ask if you can visit some ongoing projects and examine their work habits.
• Are they local? How responsive will they be if you have a problem, if they are located fifty miles away?