Karl Champley's key tip: Make sure the contractors are licensed and insured.
- Check (contractors-license.org) for your state's licensing rules. If the contractor does have a license, take down the number and call your state or local licensing board to verify.
- Liability insurance. This protects your house and property in case the contractor or his employees cause damage.
- Workers' compensation insurance. Without it you can be held responsible if someone is injured while doing work on your property.
- Insured subcontractors. The same liability and workers' compensation insurance that your contractor has should be carried by all the specialists (plumbers, electricians and others) hired.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau. How many complaints have been filed, if any? Remember misunderstandings do occur, so if there was a complaint, see if it was resolved satisfactorily.
Finding a Contractor
Getting Bids & The Contract
Contract Dos & Don'ts
Back to Get to Know Your Contractor
More Info on Dr. Phil: DIY to the Rescue: Katrina Rebuild
