The power of research can never be overestimated. It can help you achieve a firm footing in any field and the statement rings just as true for the field of home renovation. Like any field of work, the home renovation industry has also got its share of dubious contractors. They can fleece you of your hard earned money without showing any moral restraint. But this is where research helps you. It lets you have an upper footing. Contractors find it hard to swindle you. There are other ways of insuring yourself against home renovation scams. Let us check out.
A price estimate
Make a list of contractors and seek a price estimate from them. Look for a pattern in those prices and there are good chances that the contractor you hire will stick to the price close to the estimated one.
Seek references
Reference is crucial. When you appoint a contractor, you feel more at peace if he has been referred by someone you know. People who do good work earn a lot of word-of-mouth praise. As an aside, you will find them rich in testimonials. And there is nothing like a homeowner’s reference. If a Mr. Smith tells you that the contractor in question did a fantastic renovation for him and stuck to the settled price, you will definitely begin to feel good about the guy.
Upfront money
Look for sure-fire traps. For instance, there are a few contractors who ask for money in advance. Wave a red flag at them. These are not professionals to be trusted. You can ask for the entire money upfront if you are a James Barnet or an Edwin Smith but that is where the upfront game stops.
Council permit
In the same vein, steer clear of those contractors who tell you that no permit is required for undertaking the home renovation project. Beware, not only are they keen on fraudulence, they may have you paying a large penalty out of your hip pocket.
There is no calamity of honest, industrious and really talented contractors. If you research diligently and choose with care, your home may soon reflect the indelible stamp of their craftsmanship.
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