We were surfing the web recently when we came across this total bummer of a headline on azfamily.com: “Remodeling company goes under, leaving customers devastated.”
In short, a remodeling company asked for 40% of a job up front, then mysteriously vanished before work was complete. It turns out that company, Kieran Brothers, is going under, and taking a lot of unhappy customers’ money with it. Homeowners are left scratching their heads and hoping to recover some funds in bankruptcy court. Not good at all.
This news is terrible and we wish all the best to the affected parties. The customers deserve justice.
In order to avoid becoming a similar sob story, there are a few things you can do.
First, don’t pay loads of money up front. A good contractor won’t seek the total payment in advance. A devious contractor sure will. Good contractors will be upfront about the payment process and will offer alternatives that benefit both parties. Examples include regular installments or payments once certain milestones are achieved. A good business will work with you!
Second, be careful of very low bids. It pays to shop around, but if you come across a bid that is incredibly low, exercise some caution. Either the company is hoping to lure in customers with a low price and bounce after cashing that downpayment, or there are some serious corners being cut. At the least, it means having to eventually pay more money for repairs to shoddy work. At the most, it means living in an unsafe environment and putting your health at risk. There is no free lunch!
Third, always use licensed and bonded contractors. They are there to protect consumers! Take advantage of that and rest easy.
Fourth, get everything in writing. This is also for the protection of both parties. That way expectations are set, realized, and everyone wins.
Fifth, trust your gut. If something doesn’t sound right, speak up. A good contractor won’t shy away from any questions, large or small.
Have a good week!
