According to research, 60 percent of people will tell a lie in a 10 minute conversation. That’s a lot of lying for such a short conversation! When you are selecting a remodeler for your next renovation, it is important that you seek and hire the 40 percent of people who will be upfront and honest with your project.
Not that we are insinuating 60 percent of remodelers are dishonest, just that you need to take steps to protect yourself from those who might try to hurt you.
The first thing we suggest is confirming your remodeler is reputable, licensed and has the proper insurance to handle your project. If they do not have a license or insurance, you as the homeowner could be liable for damages to your property and injury to the workers. For example, if your contracted worker “pulls their back” while picking a hammer, that small tweak could cost you big in the wallet. And that promise of low cost, no hassle renovation is out the window.
Ask your remodeler questions like, how long have you been in business? Haw many other projects have you done this year? Do you have pictures of those remodels? Can I have a written detailed estimate, good for six months? What is your cancellation policy? What is your payment policy? If there do not have answers for these questions that should be a red flag.
Next we suggest asking for references. This way you can speak with past clients about the quality of work and overall experience. Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions and find out more about the reference – for all you know they could be their aunt. Usually speak with at least three past customers and ask for more if you need them.
Being a member of The Home Builders Association (HBA) of St. Louis & Eastern Missouri, we encourage you to look for your remodeler on their website www.stlhba.com, and that you go The Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Eastern Missouri & Southern Illinois at www.stlouis.bbb.org. That way you can get a clear picture of how they do business and past performance.
And most importantly, follow you gut. If you have any feelings of apprehension, there’s probably a good reason. Whether they don’t have a fixed address or are just impossible to get a hold of, it’s your project and they should be treating it as if they want your business.
If you want to know more about RIGGS, give us a call. We have been in business for more than 50 years and hang our hat on our reputation.
