Unfortunately, there are contractors out there who put out sub-par work. We have all heard the horror stories. Someone pays half up front and the contractor is never heard from again after the first day. Another person pays a fortune for a bathroom that leaks up a storm. The stories are endless, but most of them could have been avoided in the first place.

The Low Ball Bid
When choosing a contractor, many people rely solely on the price. Though many great contractors can come in with a low bid, it is important to take in all considerations. Untrustworthy contractors, or worse, scammers, take advantage of the low ball bid frequently. The homeowner may not be aware of how one contractor can work for such a cut rate. If they are reputable and do a high volume, it is likely that they can pass some savings on to you. It can be a red flag however, of an untrustworthy contractor. The “savings” may reflect stolen goods, or a desire to get what they can and leave an unfinished job.

Unlicensed Contractors
Many people will opt for an unlicensed contractor as they will usually work for a steep discount. Falling for this temptation frequently yields poor results. Assume that they are unlicensed for a reason. It is possible, and likely, that they were either unable to obtain a license or are not in good standing with the licensing board.

Check the References
When undertaking any home improvement project, it is important to talk to people who have worked with your prospective contractor. Ask former clients if you can see the work. A few pictures by email can verify skill.

Call the Better Business BureauA simple check with the Better business bureau is an easy way to find out if a person is reputable or not. Find out how any disputes were settled. Anyone can file a complaint for any reason so it is important to know if the situation was handled satisfactorily.

Utilize Referral and Pre-Screening Services
 There are many honest and highly skilled contractors out there, but sifting out the bad ones can take time. At 10BestTuscon.com, we have done the work for you.  All of the contractors on our site have been through a strict qualifying process including being in good standing with the Better Business Bureau and the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. We also make sure that licenses and insurance are current. We interview our contractors, and their clients.  Before starting any project, protect your home and your finances by knowing your contractor is qualified to do the job right.

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