08-29-2008, 05:17 AM
Kathy, I'm sorry to see this happen, I deal with contractors about everyday. I have been burned by a couple in my history!
My procedure when getting a new (to me) contractor is to ask around about them.
Get at least three references. And talk to them - make sure they aren't relatives or family members of the contractor!
I also:
Check to see how long in business.
Get insurance (worker's comp and liability) information and call the insurance company to verify it's current!
Secure a written, detailed bid. Get start and stop dates and detail contingencies (weather delays, etc)
After bid is accepted, form a written contract.
Get lien wavers.
Consider paying for and having materials delivered yourself.
Do not pay more than 30% in advance.
Get all vehicle license numbers, get home addresses of contractor and possibly all his workers. I do not do business with anyone who just has a P.O. box and no address.
Lots of contractors accept credit cards.....another avenue of redress of you get scammed.
Finally, I was burned by a smooth-talking painter who actually did about 14000 in damage to one of my properties. I withheld payment and he threatened to sue. Got a letter from his lawyer and I promptly sent back pictures and other proof of his damage - have nnot heard from them again. Company finally settled, sending me $10000 payment for damages and cancelling my debt.
My procedure when getting a new (to me) contractor is to ask around about them.
Get at least three references. And talk to them - make sure they aren't relatives or family members of the contractor!
I also:
Check to see how long in business.
Get insurance (worker's comp and liability) information and call the insurance company to verify it's current!
Secure a written, detailed bid. Get start and stop dates and detail contingencies (weather delays, etc)
After bid is accepted, form a written contract.
Get lien wavers.
Consider paying for and having materials delivered yourself.
Do not pay more than 30% in advance.
Get all vehicle license numbers, get home addresses of contractor and possibly all his workers. I do not do business with anyone who just has a P.O. box and no address.
Lots of contractors accept credit cards.....another avenue of redress of you get scammed.
Finally, I was burned by a smooth-talking painter who actually did about 14000 in damage to one of my properties. I withheld payment and he threatened to sue. Got a letter from his lawyer and I promptly sent back pictures and other proof of his damage - have nnot heard from them again. Company finally settled, sending me $10000 payment for damages and cancelling my debt.
Puna: Our roosters crow first