Whether it is to upgrade outdated finishes, replace worn-out materials, or improve livability, the reasons why homeowners look to invest in home renovation projects vary. While turning their envisioned project into a reality should bring a sense of joy and accomplishment, some homeowners may instead find themselves reeling from the impacts of a shady contractor.
In fact, problems with work performed by home improvement contractors or repairmen ranked No. 2 on the list of the top consumer complaints, according to the Consumer Federation of America’s 2023 Consumer Complaint Survey Report. Commonly cited complaints included quality, completion of work, and licensure status.
That’s why hiring a trustworthy contractor must be the first step in any home renovation project.
However, one of the challenges that homeowners may face is knowing how to identify a dishonest contractor who may perform shoddy work, damage their home, or even take their money and disappear before doing any work at all.
To help homeowners tell the difference between a trustworthy contractor and a swindler, we’ve compiled a list of five red flags that should not be overlooked. Let’s take a closer look.
Red Flag #1
All contractors must have an active license and be bonded and insured for damages that may occur. If a contractor’s licensure status is unclear and cannot be verified, and they are not properly bonded and insured, it is best to find another contractor. To verify a contractor’s status, visit the Labor & Industries (L&I) Verify tool.
Red Flag #2
If a contractor has lawsuits against their bond or safety or construction citations this is a significant red flag that should be taken seriously. Turn to the L&I’s Verify tool to see if they have any citations or lawsuits. This may sound obvious, but it is advisable to steer clear of contractors that have citations or lawsuits.
Red Flag #3
Contractors should always provide a detailed, written contract to be signed by both parties before any work begins. The written contract should include such details as the scope of work, completion dates, warranties, price, and “Notice to the Buyer” and “Notice of Washington Residents” clauses. If a contractor fails to provide a detailed, written contract do not hire them. Also, be sure not to focus solely on price. If there’s a big price difference among the estimates, ask the contractor for an explanation.
Red Flag #4
Be wary of contractors that ask for the full amount of a project up front, require large deposits, accept only cash payments, or request payments be made in their personal name versus the business name. Furthermore, never pay the final payment until the project is complete and you are satisfied with the work.
Red Flag #5
Contractors are required, in most instances, to take out the permits. Therefore, be cautious of contractors who ask the homeowner to get the building permit. Permits are important as they help ensure that the work will comply with local building codes.
Home renovation projects can be stressful and overwhelming. Fortunately, they don’t have to be. Knowing the red flags can help you find the trustworthy contractor you need to successfully turn your envisioned project into a reality.
“We’ve been in the industry for nearly two decades and understand that home improvement projects can be stressful when not properly managed by the right contractor. Before hiring a contractor we encourage every homeowner to verify credentials on the L&I site and look for an experienced contractor with a good reputation,” said Victor Zamora, founder of Steilacoom-based VAZ Kitchen & Bath. “Carefully reading a contractor’s online reviews, from both current and prior years, can be a great way to learn more about the quality of their work, trustworthiness, and level of customer service.”
To learn more about the high-quality work and exceptional customer service VAZ Kitchen & Bath delivers, contact us at 253-800-9696 or via email at viczamora23@gmail.com.
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