What Kind of Contractor You Should Hire?

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Do you want something fixed or changed around your home? Almost any endeavor to transform a part of your home can be more complicated than you would think. Including a contractor smooths the way for any project, whether simple or complex, but not all contractors are equal. Here is why it’s very important that they are licensed, insured and bonded.

Industry qualifications protect everyone involved. General liability protects you if the project goes wrong and workers’ compensation protects the contractors from job related injuries. Like medical insurance, contractors pay a fee so both you and their company are protected in the event of an accident or mistake. Licensing requirements usually vary state by state.

According to HowStuffWorks, when applying for a contractor's license, the following is often involved as well:
  • A written exam about construction skills and construction and business laws
  • Proven financial means to operate a business
  • Reference letters from a bank, previous employer and customers, engineers or architects
  • Proven on-the-job experience
Insured and bonded means you are legally and financially protected from a contractor who deviates from your project agreement, demonstrates poor workmanship, or abandons the job completely. Insurance and bonding also protects the contractor themselves should something go wrong.

Before you hire a contractor and entrust your project to them, make sure to ask for their paperwork and credentials. Getting involved with a contractor who is not licensed, insured and bonded can create problems for you. If you have received a low bid, that doesn't necessarily mean you are getting a good deal.  Warning signs that you are dealing with an untrustworthy home services company may include them asking for a large amount of project money upfront, having poor reviews or a lack of testimonials, or refusing to write down the agreed upon terms of work.

Since 1960, ELA (Electric League of Arizona), has built a reputation of consistent professionals who are industry licensed, insured and bonded, with 100% guaranteed follow-up.

Call 800-368-7767 for a free referral today!

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