Back HomeWhat is the best way to find a reputable contractor?
Complaints about home improvement contractors are one of the most frequent grievances received by the Better Business Bureau and the office of State Attorneys General. Below are a few ways that you can improve your chances of finding a reputable contractor:
- Get referrals from other building professionals. Ask professionals who you know. For example, ask your plumber, roofer, painter or real estate professional for recommendations. Since they work with other contractors on other jobs, they know who is good and who is not.
- Get references. Get three customer references from the contractor for similar projects that were completed in the past two years. Check these references carefully and if you are able to; maybe even see the work that was done. Ask them if they would hire the contractor again in the future.
- Check the contractor’s license, insurance, and permits. Make sure they are in order. Contact the Registrar of Contractors in your area.
- Get a written cost estimate with specific details, schedules, and the projected completion dates for all work that needs to be done.
