Working with a Contractor
If you are planning to hire a contractor for home repair or renovation work on your home, there are a few general guidelines that may help to ensure a good working relationship:
Develop a clear, written plan of the work that you would like to have done.
Avoid misunderstandings that can strain a contractor-customer relationship by taking the time to detail the work that you would like to have done on your home. Prepare a written plan to present to contractors when you first meet with them. This initial written scope of work will guide each contractor later in preparing a detailed and thorough bid and ensure that all contractors are bidding on the same work.
Identify & interview potential contractor candidates.
To find contractors, look in your local yellow pages, talk to friends, or search online. (The West Virginia Division of Labor's Contractor Licensing Board maintains a searchable database of licensed contractors in WV. You may access the database by clicking here). Arrange a time to meet at your home. While the initial intent is to inspect and discuss the work to be completed, first ask to see a copy of the current contractor’s license and proof of liability insurance coverage and, in the case of businesses with employees, Worker’s Compensation insurance coverage.
Request customer references & bids from at least 3 certified, licensed, and insured contractors.
Remember, you are the customer. This is the contractor’s opportunity to win your business. Avoid those contractors who may make you feel rushed, pressured, inconsequential, or dim-witted. While they prepare their bid, follow up with contractor references, and inquire about the quality of their work. Compare returned bids carefully. Look for job detail and step by step costing, including labor. Award the job to the contractor you feel brings the best value to the project, not simply the cheapest price.
Outline the work plan, timetable, payment arrangement, & other general work provisions in a written contract.
A written contract communicates clear expectations for both parties. It will also outline how to deal with changes in the work plan should something unforeseen happen. A sample contract is available for download at www.wvlabor.org or by clicking here. Note that you should never pay for labor up front, but it is accepted to reimburse the contractor in stages for the cost of materials so long as they provide you with receipts or some other proof of purchase.
DO NOT…
- Work with an unlicensed or uninsured contractor.
- Pay in cash.
- Pay the full amount of the work up front.
- Have work completed based on a verbal contract.
- Sign a contract if you do not fully understand the terms.
