10 Tips for making sure your contractor measures up.
- Hire only licensed contractors that maintain active insurance.
- Check a contractor’s license number online at www.cslb.ca.gov or by calling (800)321-CSLB (2752).
- Get at least three bids.
- Get three references from each bidder and review past work in person.
- Make sure all project expectations are in writing and only sign the contract if you completely understand the terms.
- Confirm that the contractor has workers’ compensation insurance for employees
- Never pay more than 10% down of $1,000, whichever is less. Don’t pay in cash.
- Don’t let payments get ahead of the work.
- Keep a job file of all papers relating to your project, including all payments.
- Don’t make the final payment until you’re satisfied with the job.
