Don’t Hire Just Anybody!
If you are like most people, the thought of hiring someone to come and do a job in your house gives you nightmares. Even if you have not had the experience of a bad contractor, someone you know will have told you their horror stories.
Perhaps in recognition of this, many companies are starting to use promotional material that includes information that indicates how trustworthy they are. But, as much as this is a good thing, it still does not give you a feeling of comfort.
When I want to hire a contractor I always get three quotes. As part of the quotes I ask the contractor to give me a list of his last three jobs so I can call and get a reference. I also check with the better business bureau to see if there have been any complaints listed against the contractor.
While this is not always fool proof, it is a start. Too many home owners do not practice their own due diligence. If these tips do not work for you, some of the large big box stores have contractors and will also do the work if you get the materials from them. Stores like Home Depot and Lowes come easily to mind, but there are many others.
Do not just let anyone into your home. Do everything you can to make sure the person is qualified and bonded.