4 Common Home Improvement Misconceptions
If The Better Business Bureau Doesn’t Have Any Complaints Against The Contractor, He Must Be Qualified.
This is a common and often costly misconception. In fact, just because a contractor doesn’t have any complaints with the BBB, does not mean you’re working with someone who is a reputable professional. You need to investigate the company further. Many contractors, though they have no BBB complaints, do not do a satisfactory job (much less, a superior job). To ensure you’re dealing with a reputable professional, use the BBB as a starting place, not the only place.
Also keep in mind, the BBB is not a government agency and it does not keep a record on every contractor in town. There are several very reputable contractors the BBB has no record of at all. To truly gain perspective on a contractor’s credibility, research beyond the BBB.
Going With The Lowest Price Saves You Money.
NO, not necessarily! Everyone tends to look for the lowest price. On a low estimate, you must ask yourself what is being left out or what shortcut is being taken. Let me explain…
One roofer had his re-roof job $300 cheaper than anyone else. The homeowner wanted to save money and accepted his proposal. After the job was completed, the old shingles and nails were still lying around the yard and the homeowner was upset. The contractor told them that he had not figured the clean-up in his proposal and that was why he could do the job so much cheaper than anyone else could. When comparing quotes for a new air conditioning system for you home, make sure they are comparable in equipment brand, size, features, accessories, and warranties.
One of the most common signs of trouble ahead is someone offering to do work for much less money than others. Like anything else, you can’t get something for nothing. Be careful of choosing your contractor based upon the lowest price.
Doing It Yourself Saves Money.
Sometimes the “weekend warrior” can undertake small projects like painting, hanging wallpaper, routine repairs, etc. But beware of undertaking larger, more complicated projects. What starts out as an attempt to save money can turn into a costly mess. All too often, the job is botched and it costs more to have a reputable professional come in and fix what’s been done. According to an article in the Baltimore Sun, less than 20% of these do-it-yourself jobs work out – mostly due to lack of experience on the part of the homeowner. If you want to be assured your project will turn out the way you want it, call an experienced, reputable professional.
If A Person Claims To Have Many Years Of Experience, They Must Do Quality Work.
I can’t tell you how many people receive bad workmanship from contractors who’ve claimed to be in business or the trade for twenty years. Take experience claims with a grain of salt. Just because a contractor claims to have twenty years experience, does not mean you’ll get what you want. He could have done a poor job for twenty years. Remember that technology is always improving and when it comes to air conditioning and heating equipment, ongoing education about new equipment concepts and energy saving technology is key. Investigate further to ensure you’re dealing with a qualified professional that is dedicated to continuing education in their field of expertise.
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