Looking for a trustworthy, reliable service provider, repair expert, handyman or contractor? Contacting them via Project Remedy is an excellent start! But there are still a few steps you should consider to ensure a satisfying outcome:
For example, a home renovation could require a general contractor, a specialty contractor, an architect, a designer or a designer-builder… or a combination thereof. Do your research before you start the hiring process.
Interview the service providers you think you want to hire. While their Project Remedy Professional Profile will answer all of the “nuts and bolts” questions (e.g. how long have you been in business, etc), you may want to know how many projects they’ve completed like the one you have in mind in the last year? Will your project require a permit? Can you contact previous users – and even see some of the work they’ve done?
Project Remedy takes the guesswork out of the equation, so that you KNOW you’re dealing with reputable, trusted, licensed service providers. Remember though, that depending on your project, they may need to spend a long time in your home as they work.
While paying cash may give you a discount, using a credit card can give you peace of mind should things go wrong. Either way, limit your down payment and make sure you can pay in installments as the job goes along so that if you are not satisfied with the quality of work or if the project is not proceeding as planned, your payment can also be delayed.
Before work begins, insist on getting a written agreement spelling out all the details: the who, what, where, when and how much of your project. Try to anticipate ways the project could go wrong, and how you want them taken care of if they do.
Before work begins, create a list of items that must be checked off in order for the job to be considered “completed”. Hold back your final payment until the list is done.
Even after following these steps, things can sometimes go wrong. If you have an issue with a service provider, do your best to resolve it directly with them. Be sure to document in writing your conversations, however, as you may need to involve a lawyer contact the service providers professional association for assistance.