Tips and Practices When Hiring a Trades Person

Getting the right tradesperson for a task at home can be a time-consuming job. You may get started with recommendations from friends or go through local trade directories and the Internet. There are many choices available and it can be overwhelming. You will have to explain to everyone you contact the job you need to get done, arrange times for them to come, look up the issue and give you a quote. Even then, there’s no guarantee that you have selected the best contractor, plumber or electrician. It can be an anxious decision.

It is beneficial to ask friends and family members about their experiences with reliable home contractors and good companies to work with. If you’re new to the area, however, you can start with considering online resources for services like:

• Home Depot

• Mr handyman

• Kijiji

• Trusted pros

Another way is to post a question on social media, for example on Facebook or WhatsApp groups, for recommendations and suggestions. You can also use Yellow pages to find a contractor. 

Finding a reliable home contractor online is possible, but online reviews are no substitute for meeting with a contractor in person. It is useful to have multiple options and interview them to understand what they are offering and what it would be like to have this person work in your home. Everyone has something different to offer and has a different style of working.

Here are some other quick tips:

1. Ask for a written quote before you hire a builder.

2. Thoroughly understand the terms of the agreement and estimated costs of the project before signing an agreement.

3. Check to ensure that your home contractor has proper licenses to perform the task you are hiring them for.

4. Ensure that the home contractor has secured the proper permits and licensing before she starts your home improvement project.

5. Check that they have their own public liability insurance in case they cause any damage to your home.

6. Also check your own home insurance policy to make sure everything is covered.

7. Even though acquiring permits will add time and costs to your project, the correct permits ensure your home contractor is following the law—and that your property will be properly inspected once the project is complete.

8. It is important to ask to sign an addendum based on a new project estimate if the ground reality changes and you need to add something to the project.

9. It is a good practice to only pay around 10% down payment for a bigger and longer project. Make sure the fee payment schedule is outlined clearly in your contract. You can negotiate to pay the rest of the fee once the project is completed successfully.

10. Always ask for references. Ask to see examples of their work or try talking to previous customers.