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Hiring Services/ Do's and Dont's

Any successful service relationship begins with hiring an ethical, reliable, competent Provider. This is especially important for anyone you hire to perform large services in and around your house. We have compiled a list of the most important Do's and Don'ts to help you in that process.

These tips largely apply to hiring people and businesses for larger, more complex tasks and projects and often these people will or should be professionals. However, they can still be useful general guidelines for hiring just about anyone.

  • DO your homework.
    Check the provider's profile, ratings, references, and if applicable licensing and insurance. Then select the service provider that has all of the desired qualities and understands what you want. You will know this by the detail he/she provides you in a written quotation, contract etc. He/She will be willing and happy to provide insurance and licensing verification as well as references. Once you hire someone, make them earn your trust as the work progresses.
  • DO thoroughly interview the provider(larger jobs).
    Ask the tough questions about past job performance, employees, subcontractors and materials, etc. Ask for references of similar projects he has done locally.
  • DO get all the details in writing.
    As a minimum this should include a detailed written quote signed by the service provider and also by you upon acceptance. The quote should list all of the pertinent information including project start and finish dates, materials to be provided (including brand, grade, model etc.) warranty, and complete pricing and payment terms. For large projects insist on a written contract, drawings, and detailed specifications and bills of materials. If you don't understand the contract, have a lawyer review it.
  • DON'T assume.
    A license does not equal quality work, nor mean the provider will abide by all laws. Select contractors with lots of good ratings and reviews. Make sure there are not any liens or actions on file and the credit rating is good.
  • DON'T hire any service provider unless you are comfortable.
    If your "gut" feels a bit queasy, find someone else to perform the services.
  • DON'T rely on oral agreements.
    If it is not in writing it will probably become a change order with extra costs. The law favors the contractor here, so make sure you get it all in writing before work begins.

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