Hiring Home Contractor
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Home Family -> subcategory Home Improvement.
Hiring a Home Contractor: Avoid Common Mistakes
Summary
Before adding a deck or installing a new air conditioner, learn how to avoid common pitfalls when hiring a home contractor.Common Mistakes to Avoid
Hiring a home contractor can sometimes lead to frustrations. A friend of mine, an attorney, paid over $7,000 for a roof repair, yet it leaked the next time it rained. The contractor made excuses but took no action. To prevent similar issues, avoid these mistakes:
1. Unclear Expectations: Know exactly what you want. If you change your mind midway, expect changes to the contract and cost. Decide clearly on your desired outcome.
2. Lack of Written Agreements: Avoid misunderstandings like "I didn't say I’d include the gutters." Always have a detailed contract.
3. No Deadlines in the Contract: Ensure completion dates are specified. If you want the project done by year's end, make it part of the contract.
4. Excessive Upfront Payment: While deposits for materials are reasonable, never pay in full before completion.
5. Hiring Unlicensed Contractors: Sometimes it works out, but a license provides leverage. Licensed contractors are more likely to rectify mistakes to keep their license.
6. Choosing the First Option: Don't just pick the first name you find. Ask friends or local hardware store owners for recommendations based on similar projects.
7. Assuming Smooth Sailing: Delays can happen due to weather or staffing issues. What matters is the contractor’s ability to resolve these efficiently.
8. Expecting Perfect Neatness: Construction is messy. Be prepared for some clutter. Specify in the contract that the site will be cleaned after completion.
9. No Penalties for Delays: Instead of just stating, "Complete by May 2," include a motivational clause like, "$100 per day deducted for each day past May 2."
10. Believing Contracts Solve Everything: Contracts help, but they aren't foolproof against unreasonable parties. Choose a contractor you can cooperate with, and stay vigilant.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can make the process smoother and more successful.
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