10 Home Remodel Red Flags

A remodeling project is an investment in both time and money.  You want to protect that investment by hiring a professional contractor with a track record of excellence.  (See our blog on Questions to Ask When Hiring a Contractor.) Even the most experienced homeowner can be swayed by a less-than-reputable contractor and fall victim to one of these Home Remodel red flags when making a decision on who to hire.  Not all contractors are true professionals or are not as trustworthy as they may seem.

Even though the following RED FLAGS may be basic and just common sense, more than a few homeowners have been swayed by a low price or a charming personality or a desire to get the job done immediately.

 

Here are some warning signs to watch for when speaking with a contractor. Be cautious … very cautious … if a contractor:

Red Flag #1: Solicits work door-to-door.

Reputable contractors get their work from referrals. When a satisfied customer recommends a friend, neighbor, or relative to their contractor, they are saying they know the contractor will do all he or she can to provide satisfactory results.

Red Flag #2: Does not provide a detailed, written quote.

A verbal quote is not a firm quote. It is, at best, only an estimate. Walk away if the contractor doesn’t submit a professionally written quote with all details spelled out.

Red Flag #3: Does not provide you with a contract.

The same is true for contracts. Verbal contracts don’t count, and they surely do not stand up in court should a disagreement occur.

Red Flag #4: Only accepts cash.

If contractors will not accept a check or credit card, you can rest assured that something is “fishy,” and they may run off with your money before the work is completed (or begun). The same is true if they ask for full payment upfront.  If the project is a lengthy one and the contractor must purchase materials on your behalf, then a partial payment is certainly in line. Be sure to have that detailed quote mentioned above so you will know what payment is appropriate.

Red Flag #5: Will not provide a copy of their license or insurance certificate.

This is a no-brainer. No license or insurance? Say goodbye.

Red Flag #6: Ask you to get the permits you need.

Depending on the remodel, one or more permits may be necessary. A respectable contractor will do this routinely. Any costs to do so should be included in the detailed quote.

Red Flag #7: Will avoid your request to see current references.

It is important to not only read testimonials or reviews from recent customers, but it is key to contact them to be certain they are real and accurate. This also gives you an opportunity to ask questions of past customers to delve deeper into their experience.

Red Flag #8: Submits a quote that is significantly lower than other bids you have received.

A significantly lower bid can mean that the contractor cuts corners or supplies lower quality materials. Be sure when comparing bids that you are evaluating “apples to apples.”  If the price is too good to be true, it probably isn’t. 

Red Flag #9: Evades or doesn’t respond to your questions.

If you need to ask the same question twice without an answer, either the contractor is evading the question or just doesn’t have the experience to know the answer. Homeowners have the right to ask and get detailed answers from their contractors. Don’t accept less.

Red Flag #10: Does not have a web presence.

No website? No social media?  This can be a tell-tale sign that they are moonlighting as contractors or are a new, start-up business. Research a potential contractor online to check review sites and the Better Business Bureau.

Reliable, professional home remodelers have the expertise to save you time, money, and aggravation. Your relationship should be a partnership and getting off to the right start includes making the best decision about which contractor to work with to avoid Home Remodel Red Flags.

If you are thinking about a remodeling project, call us at 508-918-0422 at A. W. Puma Remodeling and Restoration or visit our contact us page. We begin with a consultation to hear your vision. We will explain our process and answer all your questions.  Together we will design and create your new living space that you and your family will love and enjoy for many years!