Speak With Past Customers Before Hiring A Contractor

It's an age old adage and probably has never fit better than when hiring a contractor is the mission: buyer beware. There are great contractors out there and then there are those who prey on customers, do shoddy work, get cash advances and never show up.

So, how can a customer separate the two and make sure they hire the conscientious contractor? It's a matter of checking into background and taking some time to study the options.

One of the best ways to glean information about a contractor's ability to get a job done, on time, for the right price and with quality work is to talk to past customers. Asking for references is typical in the business, so a good contractor won't have a problem with providing customers to talk to. If they do, be very wary. In fact, stay away, unless the contractor's so new in the field references aren't possible, but other background checks are.

If you're concerned the customers you're being lined up with are those who are pre-programmed to say only good things, speak with other customers when you're in the contractor's office. Or, check with the local chamber of commerce and the Better Business Bureau. See if any complaints have been filed.

When talking with past customers, here are some ideas about what to ask:

• Did the contractor's work meet expectations?
• Did the cost come in at or near estimate?
• Was the work completed in a timely manner?
• Has it stood up over time?
• Would you hire this person again?

Interviewing references can be a tricky venture, but with the right questions and attention to how they respond, a lot can be learned. One or two bad reports might not signal a bad contractor though. Look for trends, and remember some people are impossible to please.

If the contractor you're considering hiring is too new to offer up a lot of references, check for other things, such as professional memberships, credentials, licensing and so on. Read the contract closely. Steering clear of "new" contractors who have all other documentation in place and even a job or two in progress to show could be closing the door on a worker who will go above and beyond. Just take care to ensure all other concerns have been addressed. Asking questions before hiring a contractor is just the smart thing to do.