Quote:
Originally Posted by Carla B
Following is a summary of an article from the POA Bulletin, May 30, 2024, about what to do before hiring a contractor:
1. Check with a Seniors vs. Crime office to see how many complaints have been filed against that contractor.
2. Ask to see his license and insurance. If he should be licensed and can't produce it, stay away.
3. Avoid large down payments. Why would someone need 50% down? Negotiate the payment schedule and hold a big chunk of the
money back with the understanding that the last payment will be made when the job is completed satisfactorily.
4. Read the contract and be sure it protects you.
5. Licensed contractor? Check the status of their license at MyFloridaLicense.com – License efficiently. Regulate fairly..
Finally, general rule of thumb, according to the POA: If the work makes your house PRETTY, it probably doesn't need a license, if it makes your house WORK, it probably does need a license, i.e., skilled trades such as plumber, electrician, roofer, pool installer.
It may be that cleaning up your shower doesn't need a license, anyway. And, "Licensed and insured," is probably a meaningless term among Florida worker/contractors. At least, the ones who knock on doors say it a lot. |
I don't completely agree with those items. Avoid large down payments should be "don't make any down payment". If you must for custom items, then use a credit card. If the contractor won't accept a credit card, don't hire him. "Licensed and insured" is not a meaningless term. If the contractor says that he is licensed, and he can't give you a license number, he is lying. I wouldn't hire a liar.
Insurance is tricky. First of all, most insurance policies will protect the contractor, not you. Proof of insurance is more than just a piece of paper. It needs to be current and certified by the insurance company as being in effect with a paid up policy and the limits and terms of coverage. And, if the contractor disappears, you will not be able to file a claim against the insurance company without the contractor's permission, unless the policy is specifically designed to protect you, not the contractor.