By Rod Davis, CEO BBB serving southeast Florida and the Caribbean
Many of us are part of online groups to keep up with what is going on in our community or in areas of interest. I routinely see questions on the Wilton Facebook group asking for advice to hire a contractor, find the best restaurant or find a reliable pet sitter. There are always responses, some helpful, som is e sarcastic and a few from individuals offering to provide the service directly.
While a referral from a trusted friend can be helpful, should we rely on feedback from online chats to make important decisions? The more complicated and costly a project is, the more research you should undertake before making a decision. Is the person properly licensed and insured? How long have they been in business? Do they have the financial resources to take on a significant project? BBB receives complaints every day from consumers who wish they had taken the time to more thoroughly evaluate the business hired.
According to the Florida Department of Professional Regulation (DBPR), while hiring an unlicensed contractor may provide a quick fix in the short term, it could result in many serious and lasting consequences. DBPR receives varying cases of alleged unlicensed construction activity including those alleging substandard work not up to building code, instances of homeowners paying for a job that is not completed as well as contractors abandoning the project. By hiring a licensed contractor, you will have peace of mind knowing that the project will be done by someone who has taken the time to acquire the appropriate education and the proper workers’ compensation and/or liability insurance and who possesses the necessary experience. BBB Accredited Businesses are evaluated to confirm they possess the proper license.
It is also important that contractors have insurance coverage. If the contractor does not have insurance, you can be held liable for injuries/accidents related to the project. At BBB.org you can find and get quotes from businesses that are licensed and insured. The combination of price, quality, and good service combine to create value. The BBB site makes it easy to get quotes from businesses with a track record and proper credentials to do the job well. Use seflorida.app.bbb.org/connect? to obtain three quotes so you may compare options, experience, and to find a business for your project with whom you have a positive interaction. You want a partner on your project with whom you can easily communicate since some issues may arise even in the best of circumstances. No matter where you find your business, always confirm the license and insurance before moving forward to signing any agreement/contract.
A written agreement with payments connected to milestones for the project provides the checks and balances to keep the project moving while also requiring a sign off that steps have been properly completed. A reputable contractor/business understands the need for this approach and also has sufficient funds to work within this “pay as you succeed” model.
At the end of the project, don’t forget to go to BBB.org and share your feedback about the business. Your experience is added to those of others in the community to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the business to prospective clients.
