Finding a Trustworthy Contractor

While the majority of home repair contractors are honest and reputable, unfortunately there are people and businesses who prey on consumers after a disaster. When talking with potential contractors, there are steps you can take to hire a trustworthy person or team.

In this blog, we cover tips for narrowing your search to honest and reliable contractors. Plus, learn tips for reporting suspicious activity.

1. Ask about their experience

Ideally, a general contractor or residential contractor should have at least five years of experience repairing, renovating or building new construction homes. Ask about projects they’ve done that are similar to yours. For example, a contractor who has built more than 25 additions would be a strong contender for building an addition on your home. On the other hand, you may want to keep searching if you find a new contractor who has only completed three home additions.

2. Verify their insurance

Make sure the contractor has liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Here are some questions you can ask to confirm these details:

• What kind of liability insurance do you have?

• Who is your insurance provider?

• What kind of workers’ compensation coverage do you have?

• Can you tell me about scenarios that could happen that your insurance would cover?

3. Talk to trusted friends and family

Your close loved ones can make it easier for you to find an honest contractor if they have already worked with one! When you have a project in mind, ask your friends and family about reliable contractors they’ve hired and what work was done. Here are some questions you can ask to cover the bases:

1. Who did you work with?

2. What was the project?

3. How long was the initial projected timeline and the final timeline?

4. What did you think of the customer service?

5. Were the contractors good communicators?

6. Was the cost a fair price?

7. Are you satisfied with the quality of their work?

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