Quote:
Originally Posted by FastAndCurious
I am sorry that this has happened to you. EVERY time I have given money to a contractor up front I have regretted it.
They may end up doing the work, but the attitude changes because they have you over a barrel.
I have a plan that helps me weed them out.
When they ask for money up front, it is usually because they say they need money for materials.
My answer: "I will give you a check for the full amount of materials they day they arrive when you show me the invoice."
"When the job is completed and I am satisfied, I will pay in full for labor costs."
When they say "I can't do that". I reply: "If you don't have enough money to buy materials for this job (and get a check the same day) then you are not really in business!"
It sends the scammers packing every time!
Good luck.
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That is a good plan, but my plan is easier. I don't pay for anything in advance, except, in some cases, will pay for "custom" materials. But, when I pay for custom materials, I use a credit card, even if the contractor charges a credit card fee. Any contractor who will not accept a credit card will not get any work from me. If you pay for the materials and the contractor doesn't do the work or does it incorrectly, you will lose the money you paid for the materials.