Hiring a contractor or repair person
Topic :Hiring a contractor or repair person
Yesterday I spent 10 hours digging down 4 feet and then tunneling under 3 feet of concrete through clay and stone to replace a return line on an inground pool (yes, I really do the work I help others with). This is a line that was replaced just last year, and should have had a 15 year life expectancy. The problem turned out to be a fitting that wasn’t properly installed (a $1.29 piece). A 15 minute repair after 8 hours of careful digging.
The company that did the work had vanished, so the homeowner was forced to pay for the repair a second time (an additional $300). This all could have been avoided if the homeowner had taken some time and done some research. Today’s tip is about hiring others for larger projects.
When hiring a contractor to do a job in your house there are a number of things to look at before agreeing to a contract:
1.) Understand the problem. Do some research on the specifics of the job. The internet, books, and other contractors are a great source of information. A knowledgeable homeowner usually gets lower bids on jobs.
2.)Get lots of estimates and get them in writing. Estimating is an art. Every contractor will write estimates differently, materials will vary, procedures will vary, and most of all dollar amounts will vary.
3.) The lowest bid isn’t always the worst contractor. In picking a contractor, go by reputation. Call some of the references he should have provided you. Look at his work on other jobs. Call the Better Business Bureau.
4.) Ask for a warranty in writing on the work to be performed. If this contractor isn’t willing to give you at least a year on his workmanship go elsewhere. No contractor will ever warranty materials…this is beyond his control.
5.) While the job is in process, keep an eye on the contractor and ask questions. Most contractors absolutely hate this, so don’t become a pest. However, it IS YOUR home…you have the right. If the contractor knows that you’re paying attention to what he’s doing he’s less likely to cut corners
and skimp on materials.
6.) When the job is complete, but BEFORE you sign the final check, do an inspection of his work. Check everything to be certain everything operates properly. All fine details are taken care of, and work was completed as per contract.
Following these steps can save you a ton of money and hassle in the future. Your home is your single biggest investment, you have the right to have it fixed to YOUR specifications as long as you’re reasonable about it!
