How to avoid scammers when you are looking for a painter, handyman or other services for your home… It is not always as easy as it seems to spot someone who is not trustworthy and reliable. For one thing, scammers have their MO all thought out before they even call on you. Also, some are not actual “scammers”, they are just unreliable workers trying to make a quick buck by cutting corners and not finishing up the job properly. Either way, here are some tactics to employ to help you spot a possible “scam job” before you hire.
Ask for Recommendations
Social media sites like Nextdoor, Neighborly, Soda City Connectors or other sites local to your area are a good place to start. However, once you have some leads you still want to do your research.
- Does the business have a website? Most legitimate and trustworthy businesses have a website or My Google Business page (although many honorable businesses do not). This provides background information, reviews and other pertinent information that will help you make your decision.
- Is the business registered with the Secretary of State Office as an LLC or with some other business designation? Ask for a copy or proof of license.
- Is the business insured? Again, they should have a valid certificate to prove they have insurance.
Check The License With the Secretary of State (SC)
Once you have found a company (or if a company found you!), you can easily check with South Carolina’s Secretary of State to see if the hold a valid license and if the company is in good standing. It also gives other pertinent information about the company that will help inform your choice. Follow this link and click on Business Entities Search to look for any SC company.
Schedule a Free Estimate
This will give you an opportunity to meet in person with the company spokesperson. He/She should be professional and cordial. You should be able to communicate your project and expectations freely and you should feel comfortable. Listen carefully to the responses and make sure you are on the same page about what is to be done and how they will accomplish it within a reasonable time frame.
If they have a “sad” story, pressure you or insist you start the next day – that should raise a red flag.
Review the Estimate
Be sure to get the estimate in writing and once you receive the estimate read it over thoroughly and ask any questions you may have. You don’t always have to accept the lowest estimate – this can SOMETIMES be a scamming technique to be sure you call that contractor. Remember the old adage, you get what you pay for. Your final choice should be based on what company you think will do the best job for your needs.
Accepting an Estimate
When you decide on the estimate you want to accept, give the contractor a call back. Do they return your call in a timely manner? Do they answer all your questions? If so, the next step is to get a contract and make a deposit. Again, look over the contract and make sure you are in agreement. Don’t forget, if you add on extras AFTER the work has begun – expect to pay for that work. This is not a scam, just good business practice.
Making a Deposit
Your deposit should not exceed 25% – 33% of the final cost. This usually covers materials and the fact that they are blocking off time for your project that might otherwise go to another client. Don’t make the final payment until the work is done and you are satisfied with the completed project. An honest contractor will “walk” the project with you when it is completed and make sure you don’t have any concerns.
It is possible for anyone to fall prey to a scam, so don’t be embarrassed if it happens to you. Report it to the authorities and click this link to file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau in an effort to resolve your conflict and to help others. Post it on social media sites and give warnings to others.
Likewise, if you find a good and honest contractor for your project, post that, too. It will help others avoid untrustworthy workers.
ColaTown Painting is a company you can depend on for your interior or exterior painting projects. Call Britt 803-603-6486 for your free estimate or e-mail us at ellisb@colatownpainting.com. Visit out gallery for some inspiration!
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