How to Find an Honest Contractor
John Toth, President
North Coast Building Industry Association – NCBIA (www.ncbia.com)
Beware of Storm Chasers: Protect Yourself and Your Home This Winter
Severe weather may be approaching with the arrival of the winter months. If Mother Nature damages your home, you may need to call a professional for help. Unfortunately, not all “professionals” have your best interests in mind. After natural or man-made disasters, unscrupulous contractors often try to profit from a community’s misfortune.
You can’t always prevent unexpected damage to your home, but you can prevent becoming a victim of a fly-by-night contractor. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure you hire a reputable professional—whether for post-disaster repairs or a planned renovation.
Price and Payment
- Don’t feel pressured to sign a contract immediately. No reputable contractor will demand that you sign on the spot to avoid a price increase.
- A deposit of 20–50% is typical—but never pay the full amount upfront before work begins.
- Be comfortable with the payment method. Avoid paying cash to a salesperson; instead, use a check, money order, or credit card for security and documentation.
References
- Verify the business address and ensure the contractor has a physical, verifiable location.
- Check the Better Business Bureau for any unresolved complaints.
- Ask for references from previous clients—and make sure they can be reached.
- Review online feedback on sites such as HomeAdvisor, Houzz, or Google Reviews. Keep in mind that no company is perfect—read both positive and negative reviews with perspective.
Contract and Completion
- Always insist on a written contract. Be cautious of anyone who says a contract “won’t be necessary.”
- Confirm inspection requirements. If any of the work needs a city or county inspection, make sure it’s completed and that you have the paperwork before making final payment.
- Hold final payment until the job is fully finished and you are satisfied with the results.
Following these guidelines will help you select a contractor who does quality work and stands behind it.
To learn more about finding a reliable contractor with an established business in our community, contact the North Coast Building Industry Association (NCBIA).
We are your local, not-for-profit trade association representing companies involved in home building, remodeling, and all aspects of residential and light commercial construction. We’re here for you—and because of our Associates, we are stronger than ever.
Looking for dependable, reputable companies? We have the only list you’ll ever need—from accountants to window washers. Chances are, we have a member who can help!
Call us: 440-934-1090 (Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.)
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NCBIA – Building Homes, Enriching Communities, Changing Lives. Come Build with Us!