Tips for hiring a contractor — from a contractor
Tips for Hiring a Gutter Installer in Denver
Lessons about hiring a contractor written by a contractor
Sometimes I jokingly refer to myself as a recovering general contractor. When I first started flipping houses in 2008 I had to learn very fast how to qualify and select good contractors. Years later when I took a job as a project manager in charge of multi-million dollar commercial projects it became significantly more important to hire the right person or company for the job.
A bad contractor can be way more than just a headache and a delayed project. If things get bad enough it can lead to a drawn out and expensive legal battle.
Most customers don’t know this but in the state of Colorado (and most all jurisdictions in CO) you do not need to have a license to operate as a general contractor. So that means anyone with a truck, a toolbox, and a website can start a construction company and charge customers for gutter installation, gutter cleaning, or any other home renovation service. Oftentimes even well-meaning and talented carpenters have little or no experience handling tasks needed to manage construction projects — finances, budgets, schedules, subcontractors, etc. Most medium to large size remodel projects will require a 25-50% deposit which the contractor will tell you is to cover materials and upfront costs. But many times your deposit actually goes to float other jobs that have been mismanaged by the contractor. And in the worst-case scenario, they could disappear with your money. In most cases the police will do nothing if this happens because it’s technically considered a civil issue — meaning you’d have to sue them to even attempt to get your money back. Needless to say, be VERY careful before you give a contractor any money before the work has started.
Some red flags to look for:
In general, these items become more important as the project cost and scope of work increase:
Negative Online Reviews: In my opinion, one of the best things about the internet these days is the ability to read what other people say about products and services before you buy them. A reputable contractor with a track record of satisfied customers will usually have positive reviews on places like Google, Yelp, Facebook, etc. Consistent negative reviews (less than 3 stars) are a huge red flag for any contractor. For me personally, I rarely hire any person or business that has an average rating of less than 4.0 stars and that usually works out pretty well.
Poor Communication: Lack of communication or a lack of responsiveness is a big red flag. Not just because it shows a lack of respect, but even more importantly, effective communication is critical for a successful construction project. A contractor who is unresponsive or unclear in their communication may lead to misunderstandings and project delays.
No Verifiable References: Inability to provide references from previous clients or projects. A reputable contractor should have a track record of successful projects. Even if they are new to business they should have references from past customers or projects. The absence of verifiable references could indicate a lack of experience or a history of unsatisfied clients.
No Written Quote or Contract: A verbal agreement and a handshake should not be used unless you are hiring someone for a very small job (under $100). A detailed written quote or contract (even if it’s in the form of an email) will clarify the job details and is your legal protection that ensures both parties understand and agree to the terms of the project. Avoid working with contractors who resist putting agreements in writing.
Vague or Unclear Contracts: Contracts that are vague, incomplete, or difficult to understand can cause major problems. A clear and detailed contract is essential for outlining project scope, timelines, costs, and responsibilities. Ambiguous contracts can lead to misunderstandings and disputes.
Unrealistic Low Bids: While everyone appreciates a good deal, unrealistically low bids may indicate that the contractor is cutting corners, using subpar materials, or planning to add extra costs later in the project. Or even worse, they are desperate for funds to keep another job afloat.
Lack of Detailed Project Plan: A lack of planning can result in project delays and cost overruns. A professional contractor should be able to outline a clear and realistic schedule for your project.
Unusual Requests for Money: While deposits are common, excessive upfront demands or pressure to pay on the spot without enough time for consideration may indicate financial instability or a potential scam. Reputable contractors typically work with a reasonable payment schedule tied to project milestones. Asking for more money outside of what was originally agreed is a flag that there may be financial troubles.
Written by: Justin Fitzpatrick
