What are the Top 10 Scams of Building Contractors?
What are the Top 10 Scams of Building Contractors?
Scams of building contractors should be avoided at all costs. A building contractor should be checked for references before hiring. At least three sources should be checked and always ask to see their former work. An honest and reputable building contractor is skilled and works for the proper cost. Legitimate contractors are certified, insured and/or bonded. They will provide you with a written estimate before the work.
A contractor may appear to be legit, however building contractors should be checked for references before hiring. At least three sources should be checked and always ask to see completed work on other jobs.
Avoid these top ten scams of building contractors.
Contracts are missing terms or too vague.
Payment schedule and Quality of items should be spelled out. Labor standards, quality of materials, time and payment schedules should be included and strictly followed.
Permit information is misleading
Permits are required for construction jobs. Beware of the quote, “that doesn’t need a permit.” When in doubt, check it out with local resources. If your contractor requests a permit and does a bad job, it is the contactor’s responsibility to make it right. If a homeowner requests the permit and the work is not up to code, the bill goes to the homeowner.
Demanding an early payment
Beware of sob stories and never make full payment until the job is finished and checked. There are scam artists who take your money and run.
Low ball Quotes
The job begins at a good price and all of a sudden – more money is needed. Do not pay a dime for this scam as you have a quote. Your contractor may walk away and do a messy job.
Upfront Money
Never give a contractor all the money up front. Never!
Get all agreements in writing
Beware of a contractor who says, “Take my word for it.” Get every last detail of your agreement in writing.
Unforeseen problems
Your project is underway and now your contractor needs more time or money for unforeseen problems. Take heed of these words and check out the details from a reputable third party. The problems may be legitimate or not. Make sure when signing your contract, there is a clause for change orders.
Cheap deal on extra materials
Beware of additional material your contractor may offer for an additional fee. It may be left over from another job or may be of inferior quality. It may or may not be a bargain.
Intentional Damage
There are contractor scams where contractors ask for additional money or for your insurance company to pay claims for theft or storm damage. Thefts and seeming damage from storms may be inside job scams from your contractor. A reputable contractor will have their own insurance that covers these items.
Contractor’s reputation
A contractor may appear to be legit, but their company is not listed on the internet or yellow pages of the phone book. There is not an office. Hmmm, sounds suspicious? Building contractors should be checked for references before hiring. At least three sources should be checked and always ask to see completed work on other jobs.
Avoid these top ten building contractor scams and always use caution.
Categories: Buying
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