What You Should Know

Especially in this economy, money is important, so when you are looking to make necessary upgrades to your home or business you want to make sure that you are hiring the right person.

How can you be sure that you are hiring a reputable contractor? Don't just take those 6 random numbers on the side of a truck as a "license number" - it is important to protect yourself and your home.

The California State License Board offers some downloadable PDF's and check-off sheets to make the choosing and hiring process more bearable. The original site is here: http://www.cslb.ca.gov/ And two PDF's that I highly suggest are also available on our website's resource section here: http://www.sinclairair.com/resources/resources.html

Some "quick" things to remember (please also read the brochures - especially if you are looking for a contractor):

1. Contractors should always be able to provide you with a list of references - with at LEAST three names on it. While it may be awkward, it is always a good idea to actually look up these people to see how their experience was with the company. People will more or less be honest with you, and that's a good place to start. If the work is something like a remodel, the contractor should also provide pictures or a sort of portfolio of past work that you can either go see in person, or at least look through at your own convenience (that means without the contractor breathing down your neck). If one or the other is lacking...or if you get any 'gut' feelings, this probably isn't the contractor you should hire.
2. A contractor should also provide you with a written contract. If there are any changes to the original contract, those also need to be put in writing. Please read any and all material BEFORE signing on the dotted line - REGARDLESS of the pressure to do so. If a contractor wants only a 'verbal agreement' it's time to run the other way - and tell all your friends along the way.
3. Don't pay the bill UNTIL you are happy with the work. If something goes wrong, the contractor needs to know, and if it needs to go to arbitration, those steps need to be taken before you are "paid in full."
4. My last tip: COMMON SENSE Common sense, common sense. If it doesn't seem right, IT ISNT. Protect your home and your sanity by taking a couple of extra precautions before hiring a contractor. You won't be sorry.

The PDF's really have some good advice - which I didn't have time to share on the blog - like how to look up if a contractor has had legal action or complaints against them - which is a great idea to know, especially before choosing someone to hire. Plus, the seniors one also has some great information. That brochure should be passed on to elderly friends and relatives. Happy hiring! and GOOD LUCK!