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Fairfield, CT

CT BBB Tip: Hire A Reliable & Trustworthy Contractor

 

   
   
CROMWELL, Conn. — If you completed a home improvement project recently, you probably remember how difficult it was. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, building a home office, or creating the perfect entertainment space, you may decide you need the help of a general contractor. That’s where a trusted and vetted contractor comes in.
 
Some contractors focus on a specific type of project, like plumbing or tiling or painting, while others will work on any type of project. For larger projects, a general contractor may also serve as a project manager working with other vendors to get all the work done.
 
Hiring a reliable and trustworthy contractor is one of the most important steps for your project. Hire the right one and you can relax knowing that your project is in good hands. Hire the wrong one and you could be facing a wide range of problems from unfinished work to being sued if workers aren’t paid.
 
In 2020, Better Business Bureau Serving Connecticut received over 228,000 inquiries on BBB.org for home improvement contractors. Consumers turn to BBB to help them find a trustworthy contractor by checking ratings, history of complaints, and reading customer reviews.
 
Consider these tips when hiring anybody to work in your home:
  • Research. Search for a contractor’s Business Profile on BBB.org for free information on their history of complaints, read verified Customer Reviews, and see if they are an Accredited Business.
  • Ask for references. Ask the contractor for a list of recent local references you may contact. Ask the references about the services performed, quality of the work and their overall experience with the contractor. Ask if the contractor stuck to the estimated budget and completion date for the project.
  • Obtain multiple quotes. You should always shop around and get at least three quotes from different businesses. Make sure all bids consider the same set of criteria. Remember that the lowest bid may not necessarily be the best bid; if one bid is significantly lower than the others, the contractor may be cutting corners or may not understand your work requirements.
  • Get it in writing. Always get estimates in writing and never let any work begin without a written and signed contract. Don't be pressured into signing an agreement before you are ready and make sure you read and understand everything before signing. Ask questions if you do not understand any part of the contract.
  • Verify license and insurance. Always be sure that the company you decide to work with has the necessary licenses and insurance to work in your region. In Connecticut, you can use elicense.ct.gov.
  • Never pay in full up front. Create a payment schedule so your final payment is not due until the work is complete and you have fully inspected it. Do not pay cash; make sure your check is written to a company, not an individual, or that you use a credit card. Paying with a credit card will provide some recourse should the job not be completed as stated in the contract.
  • Keep all documentation. Hold on to your receipt and contract for future reference or if any questions arise after the work is complete. Make sure you are aware of your warranty coverage and how to deal with service issues.  
Need help with your project? Find trusted, vetted contracting pros near you and get a quote.

 

 

 

 

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Submitted by Fairfield, CT

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