At Purgula, we can never over emphasize the importance of proper planning and researching before signing a renovation contract. That said, we also realize that there may never be sufficient time to plan every aspect of a home improvement project thoroughly. Here are some tips to help you quickly identify if you may be considering a less-than-stellar contractor. If you encounter a few of these signs, you should feel confident in walking away. If you are unsure, another safe tactic is to test the prospective contractor with a smaller project first.
As we will be updating this list over time, please leave a comment if you think we missed anything important. Thanks!
Signs of a Bad Contractor Before You Sign a Contract:
- A Large Down Payment is Requested
- Licensing Information is not Immediately Available
- Years Operating as a Business is Minimal
- Contractor Refuses to Share Subcontractor Information
- Contractors has a Suspiciously High Percentage of 5-Star Ratings
- Contractor Can Start Immediately
- Contractor is a Poor Listener
- Contractor Pushes You to Sign a Contract
Trust your instincts and avoid contractors who exhibit unprofessional behavior, such as being rude or disrespectful. It’s essential to thoroughly research potential contractors, read reviews, and gather multiple quotes to make an informed decision.