As we’ve already said, do business with licensed, bonded, and insured contractors. Be careful if they can’t offer any references from recent projects. Any honest handyman is always ecstatic to show off their earlier work. Always call those references and ask to see the completed project if possible. Double check the handyman’s business addresses, phone number, and website and look for relevant information. It may seem like a lot of work, but it is worth it. An extra step you can take is to check with the local Home Builders Association and consumer protection officials to see if they have complaints against a contractor. You also can search online for the company’s name with keywords like “scam,” “review,” or “complaint.” Or, use online rating-review websites you trust to see what others say about the contractor.
The experts at LegalMatch explain that an unlicensed contractor can seem like an appealing option to you because they cost less than their licensed counterparts. But the reason they may cost less is, at least, in part, because unlicensed contractors avoid the expense of obtaining the proper licensing and liability insurance required to work in a particular state. This can open you to liability for legal issues resulting in financial losses. Now you know what to look out for; good luck!
