Is Your Contractor Licensed and Insured?
It’s time! You have finally decided to tackle your home improvement projects! Now what?
After lots of Google searching and talking to co-workers about their recent exterior improvement projects, you decided to hire a local company that left an advertising leaflet in your door. The company guaranteed low prices and quick timelines. This sounded great for both you, your schedule, and your time. Unfortunately, after only two weeks of the project, the contractors stopped coming to the worksite following the injury of one of their co-contractors. When you noticed that the project had come to a halt, you reached out to the company and received little information in return. Turns out that the contractors you hired were not licensed and insured. Your project is unfinished, your contractors are absent, and your money is wasted. However, this could have been avoided!
Verifying that your contractors are insured and licensed is arguably the most important step in planning your home improvement projects.
With fraudulent service providers on the loose, it can be a challenge to find honest, credible contractors who will not only get the job done but provide you with an exceptional experience. Taking responsibility for your projects and verifying contractors before the job begins is a wise decision and will guarantee the proper protection. Here are some things to consider when evaluating a contractor’s legitimacy.
Contractor Insurance
There are two different types of insurance for contractors: liability and worker’s compensation. Liability protects the client from a contractor causing damage to property and worker’s compensation provide a monetary amount to injured workers and benefits to a family as the result of a more serious worksite accident. Make sure to check with your contractor that the insurance policies are updated and current.
Contractor Licensing
Every state has licensing requirements for contractors. The complicated element is that licensing varies on the trade of the contractor. For example, licensing is different for an electrician, plumber or HVAC. Communicate with your contractors to ensure that their licensing aligns with your specific projects. Contractors are required to have their license number with them at all times and also cited on all bids and contracts.
Additional steps to take prior to selecting a contractor:
Visit the Better Business Bureau, Greater Lansing Home Builders Association
Read testimonials and client reviews
Locate the business’s location and telephone number
Your home improvement project is an important investment. Be sure to ask the right questions and cover all your bases before hiring a contractor!
Looking for an exceptional insured and licensed company to get the job done?
Contact Exteriors of Lansing TODAY for a free estimate