As an insurance company that deals with home insurance claims, we try to help our clients understand how important it is to do their research on a potential contractor. When it comes to hiring an outside vendor for your private property or home, the vetting process is critical.
Word of mouth and online reviews can help you decide whether a contractor is the right fit for the job. Depending on what type of contract work is needed, there are times when an emergency contractor needs to be hired. In this instance, how can you do your due diligence on securing a good deal with a new vendor?
Tips to Help Prevent Contractor Fraud
When trying to hire a contractor, here are a few tips we recommend for you to do.
1. You should never pay a contractor in full or sign a completion document until the work is absolutely finished and you ensure the new or updated construction is up to code.
2. Try to get more than one estimate before you decide to go with the first contractor, and you should never let a contractor pressure you to hire them or retire them.
3. It would be best if you got everything in writing. Verbal agreements may only increase your chances of getting scammed. Even though a verbal agreement is legally binding, it can be challenging to prove the terms of an oral contract in court if it escalates to such a situation.
4. When reviewing your contract, do not sign if you see pages full of blank spots that the vendor has not filled out. Empty areas on a contract can make room for unacceptable terms to be added without your knowledge at a later time. Your signature on the agreement means that you had previously acknowledged items that may have been added without your discretion or review.
5. You should also ensure that you thoroughly review and understand all of the documents sent to you by the contractor and your insurance carrier.
6. Even if you have previously worked with a trusted contractor, you should always keep receipts and records of payments and avoid paying in cash.
7. Suppose you did not get a recommendation for the emergency contractor. In that case, you may ask them to share previous client names and contact information for reference.
Affordable Homeowners Insurance
If you are looking for affordable homeowners insurance in Ohio, look no further! Bill Palmer Insurance was founded in Lancaster, Ohio, in 1977.
With so much local knowledge and experience, our agency offers prompt quotes for new and existing clients. We are proud to serve the Canal Winchester and Logan areas. Give us a call (740-687-5733) for a free quote today!