Ten Steps to Hiring a Service Professional

TEN STEPS FOR HIRING SERVICE PROFESSIONALS 1. Confirm the salesperson works for the company. Verify that the individual with whom you are speaking is an authorized agent of the company. 2. Ask for copy of the company's license. Ask the company to provide a copy of their license. It is important that you verify the license is still in good standing. Be aware that certain states licensing requirements are based on dollar amounts and not project type. 3. Ask for proof of insurance. Ask the company to preface a copy of their insurance certificate. We recommend that you verify with the insurance agency or carrier that the policy is still in good standing. General Liability Insurance generally covers a contractor for accidents that occur while the contractor is working, however there are exclusions to coverage, and you should confirm the actual scope of the contractors coverage directly with the contractor.

We recommend that before working with a service professional, you verify that information presented is still current and/or acceptable to you. We recommend that you obtain a copy of the service professionals insurance certificate where applicable.

4. Finalize the contract before starting on a project. A good contract... should be written on company letterhead. Should contain the company's name, address phone numbers, and license number (if applicable). Should contain the consumer's name, address (where work is to be performed), and phone number and is dated when it is written. Should include a detailed description of the work that is going to be performed. Provides dollar amounts associated with each task included in the project. Includes an anticipated start and finish date. Provides a payment schedule. Includes a termination clause. Contains a clause that protects you the homeowner from any potential mechanics liens once you have paid the contractor in full. Clearly states whether permits will be pulled, and who will be responsible for pulling them.

5. Make payments to the company that was referred. Do not pay an individual.

6. Avoid paying with cash. Check and credit cards are preferable, and be sure to get a receipt for all payments.

7. Withhold final payment until you are satisfied with the project. Don't pay in full until the project is completely finished and you have completed your final building inspection.

8. Don't advance money for materials. It absolutely necessary, make sure the materials are delivered to your house with a receipt showing that they have been paid in full.

9. Check multiple references. In addition to reading the company's ratings & reviews, consider checking additional r references for the service professional.

10. Document all changes to the contract. Make sure all changes to the original contract, no matter how small, are documented an signed off by both parties.

Remember! It is your project, don't assume that a service professional is always going to have your interest at heart instead of his own. Good Luck! Until next time-Inspector Tom