Never, never, never
NEVER, NEVER, NEVER... pay up front.
Find someone else.
If a small company or startup, they may not have the revenue to back purchases. In that case, you either buy the material for them.
I had a materials and construction company I started in the early 70s. My contracts detailed estimated materials and labor, as well as any other estimated costs. I was a stocking contractor, as such, I asked for 1/3 up front for materials and permits. If the job went more than 1 - 2 weeks, I had a scheduled 1/3 after rough in and inspections were done, then the balance when complete and the customer was fully satisfied. After a couple years and my cash flow allowed it, I discontinued the practice.
NEVER pay up front!
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