Hiring Services/ When #@$@*! Happens!

Very few projects go from start to finish without a problem or two, sometimes more. So the best idea is to be prepared to deal with problems in an organized manner to get them resolved to your satisfaction.

As soon as you identify a problem, document the issues with notes and photos if possible.

Again, these tips are geared towards hiring people and businesses for larger projects and ongoing tasks (think a new roof or planning a wedding).

• Immediately contact the service provider, both by certified letter and phone. Describe the problem and have him meet with you as soon as possible to visually inspect the areas of concern. Ask for and discuss solutions thoroughly. Make sure you understand and agree with what he intends to do to correct the problems. Have the provider put it in writing with enough detail to be sure the work and materials will be redone to the agreed standards.
• If you decide to make a change in the work, be prepared to work out and sign a change order including a price for the change. The sooner you tell the provider of your desired change and work out the change order, the less costly it will typically be. Don't expect the service provider to put up half a room of wall paper then take it down to replace it with another choice at no charge. Be fair with your provider and they will typically be fair in return.
• If the problem is severe, or if you have doubts about the proposed solution, consider bringing in a professional inspector to assess the problem and make recommendations.
• Documentation is critical throughout the project. Take lots of before and during photos. Make notes and document every conversation with your provider including date, time and agreed resolution. Have both of you sign it.
• Don't agree to pay to fix work or materials that the service provider or contractor screwed up. It is his problem and cost to correct the problem, not yours. This does not apply if something totally unforeseen occurs during the project, such as discovering rotted wood in a roof that this being replaced, and that could not be identified before the project was started.
• Expect the unexpected. Deal with it in a calm and professional manner. Let your service provider know how much you appreciate his responsiveness and quality.
• When all else fails, and the provider has not solved the problems, report the provider to the licensing board and your Better Business Bureau. Post your issues in the providers' ratings section on Honeydo.com, and finally hire a lawyer and provide him with all of your documentation.