CROMWELL, Conn. — After investing money, time and care in a large home improvement project, you don't want to regret anything. You want to be satisfied with the results. In 2024, BBB Serving CT received nearly 400 complaints about home improvement contractors. During that same timeframe, more than a dozen reports of home improvement scams came into BBB's Scam Tracker from Connecticut residents, totaling $100,000 in losses.
If you need a contractor, you want to have the best team, the best experience, and, most importantly, the best final results. Still, some common mistakes can leave you in the lurch if you don’t cover your bases.
If you’re a homeowner looking to hire a general contractor, avoid the “woulda-coulda-shouldas” by taking note of these 10 common mistakes made when hiring a contractor.
1. Not doing research: Hiring a contractor can be complex. It is important to check their experience, credentials, references, licenses and performance. Remain organized and informed to be successful.
2. Not checking licenses, insurance, or permits: You don’t want to be held liable (or sued) for an accident on the job site. You don’t want your project to get shut down for not having a permit. You want hazardous materials or substances to be handled safely. Anyone you work with should be up to date on their insurance and certifications and secure the necessary work permits before hammers fly.
3. Not hiring a designer or architect: Projects involving entire room remodels, reimagined floor plans, elevations, and additions require professional insight. These professionals provide valuable information regarding the project's aesthetic, functionality, and structural integrity. They’ll also work with you to add the personal touch that fits your aesthetic, scope and budget.
4. Not hiring a professional: In some cases, simple home improvement tasks can absolutely be tackled by you and the people you know. But consider carefully before trusting a friend or family member to take on a project best handled by a professional. Their work could have a negative impact on your relationship if you have a bad experience.
5. Not gathering multiple bids: Be smart by comparing your top candidates' services, quotes, and skillsets. Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the firms you are thinking about. This will help you make a knowledgeable decision.
6. Not having a signed contract: For deadlines, scope of work, warranties, materials, payment terms and beyond, you can always go back to this document. Even when a project is completed, keep your contract and any relevant receipts, plans or paperwork should you need to reference them in case disputes or misunderstandings arise.
7. Not paying responsibly: If a contractor only accepts cash and doesn't give a receipt, that’s a huge red flag. Just like having a contract in hand, having an official transaction history is essential. If a contractor wants payment in full up front, that leaves you in a vulnerable position if the project goes off the rails. Consider a payment plan that gives you room to review the work while it’s being done and after it’s completed.
8. Not considering more than the price tag: While price is important, paying lower prices might result in poor craftsmanship, cheap materials and ultimately, a bad end result. Consider all angles – especially regarding things like reputation, experience and communication – when making big decisions.
9. Not communicating well: Pay careful attention to the communication habits of your candidates during the interview process, and be upfront about your communication needs as you explore what it will be like working with them.
10. Not having an emergency budget: Your project's scope is always susceptible to things that are just out of your control. Get peace of mind by creating an emergency fund for these unforeseen circumstances.
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