Signs That Your Contractor Is Ripping You Off

As a homeowner who frequently needs to make repairs or additions to your home, you cannot let your time or money be wasted by a swindler. Yet, the construction field is full of incompetents and con artists. To avoid being tricked, learn the several tell-tale signs that your contractor is ripping you off.

They Cannot Provide a Copy of Their License

It should not be difficult for a contractor to offer proof that they are licensed and legally able to do the work. Contractors typically make their license easily visible on their contracts and marketing materials. If the person you hire to fix your windows does not offer a copy of their license or becomes evasive and non-responsive if you ask for it, you could be working with someone posing as a contractor. This can be dangerous, as a con artist could overextend the work and charge you more.

They Do Not Sign Contracts

Some people might scoff aside a contract, saying, “What good is a piece of paper when you have my word?” This is one of the signs that your contractor is ripping you off. Contracts bind people to the work they promised to do. People who live up to their promises should not be averse to signing a fair, transparent contract.

Their Rates Are Much Lower Than Average

Unfortunately, when things seem too good to be true, that’s usually because they are. If you’re redoing your patio doors in Colorado Springs and you notice your contractor’s rates are below what you’ve found elsewhere, you should ask yourself, “Why don’t they ask for more? What aren’t they buying?”

It very well could be that the contractor isn’t paying for adequate employees, the proper permits, or ongoing education. For decisions as big as how to remodel your doors and windows, you don’t want to leave the job up to someone who manages everything on the cheap. They won’t do an acceptable job, and you will walk away feeling cheated.

They Break OSHA Guidelines

As a matter of quality, but also a matter of principle, never work with a contractor who breaks the guidelines outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. These rules are meant to protect workers from dangerous work environments. Any contractor who is irresponsible enough to put their employees in jeopardy is too irresponsible to lead a window job on a home.

Watch out for contractors who let the worksite get messy, who leave dangerous tools or devices under ladders, or who work with dated or worn-out equipment. Contractors who don’t live up to the standards of their profession can’t be trusted to do the job right.