As remodeling contractors take on big responsibilities in demolishing, building and improving parts of your home, it's only natural for homeowners to feel apprehensive before the work begins. In the best case scenarios, you may work with contractors who provide expert customer service and complete their work in timely and excellent fashion. In the worst case scenarios, you may do business with contractors who produce shoddy work or who do not complete the job. Consumers often contact Better Business Bureau in hopes of finding reputable remodeling contractors who can meet their needs.
In 2017, BBB serving eastern and southwestern Missouri and southern Illinois received nearly 40,000 inquires from consumers about the construction and remodeling industry. Of the thousands of construction and remodeling companies in your BBB's service area, 752 have earned accreditation. With so many businesses to choose from, it can be overwhelming for consumers to find a contractor who meets their needs.
It's important to do your research before selecting a contractor. One resource is midmobbb.org. BBB Business Profiles include thousands of contractors that show how long a contractor has been in business and how many complaints - if any - have been filed against the company and how the company has responded. The review includes a rating from A+ to F, with F being the lowest rating BBB gives to any company. Some profiles also have customer reviews that rate their experience as positive, negative or neutral.
Complaints about the construction and remodeling industry include concerns over poor workmanship, work not completed and contracts not honored.
BBB offers the following tips to consumers considering hiring a contractor:
- Ask at least three companies for bids based on the same requirements. Discuss the bids in detail with each contractor and ask them about variations in pricing. The lowest-priced bid may not be the best.
- Ask about the company's insurance. Does it carry worker's compensation, property damage and liability insurance? Ask for proof of insurance or for the name of an insurance agent you can call to verify the coverage.
- Ask whether the contractor is licensed for the type of work you need. Does the firm meet the bonding requirements of your city, county or state?
- Check with local authorities to find out whether permits are needed. The contractor should be aware of any permits or inspections that may be required.
- Ask the contractor to provide a lien waiver when the job is completed. A lien waiver is a statement that all suppliers and contractors have been paid for materials and labor.
- Ask for a contract and read it. Get any verbal promises in writing. Make sure the contract includes the start date and expected completion date.
- Do not pay the entire amount due until the work is completed and you are satisfied. Be careful if a contractor wants to be paid in full up front. In some cases, a contractor may need a down payment to cover materials. But the bulk of the money should not be due until the work is complete.
- Always check a company's BBB Business Profiles at midmobbb.org.
Consumers may obtain BBB Business Profiles or post Customer Reviews by going to midmobbb.org. Assistance also is available by calling 573-886-8965.
Sean Spence is the Mid-Missouri regional director for Better Business Bureau.