Tips On Hiring Contractors
1. Hire only licensed contractors. Confirm license type and current validity through the California State Board of Licensing. It is within the law to hire a non-licensed worker for jobs costing less than $500, but the buyer-beware.
2. Hire only insured contractors. Obtain proof of current and adequate coverage.
3. Confirm contractors who are employers have Worker’s Compensation insurance. If a contractor is exempt it means any worker on the job must belong to a subcontractor who is insured. Uninsured workers can file damage claims against a homeowner if they are injured.
4. Always review past work and references.
5. Ask lots of questions. Get the who, what, why, when, where and how of what you can expect from the contractor you’re considering.
6. Get multiple estimates. Be able to compare them ‘apples to apples.’
7. Never begin a job without a signed contract.* Never sign a contract until you understand and agree with all the terms. Be sure the payment schedule is spelled out in dollars and cents. Get everything in writing.
8. Never begin a job with an initial or down payment of more than 10% or $1,000 – whichever is less. Never pay for work until it is completed. Never pay cash without getting a receipt for each payment made.
9. Keep a job file. Include the contract, all receipts, permits, plans, and other matters pertaining to the work.
10. Always hold back 10% of payments for the final payment, to be paid after the work is fully completed and you are satisfied.