[Grofica]

Originally Posted by Spraynard Kruger

It's very important when dealing with contractors to always, always, always give them whatever deposit they need for materials first (50% deposit or less) and then pay as the job progresses. Never pay the last dollar until you are satisfied with the work and always get references prior to starting.

I usually get 5-7 bids before I start work as well. It hasn't always worked in my favor but the lessons learned are invaluable.

in this market 99.9% of all construction business have changed their policies to they wont work without it paid for 100% prior to start.

[Jukesgrrl]

Originally Posted by Grofica

in this market 99.9% of all construction business have changed their policies to they wont work without it paid for 100% prior to start.

I've read that comment from other people on this LV board. I've renovated two old houses in other cities, hiring A LOT of contractors, and I've never run into that issue before. I can understand why people NEED money to purchase materials and WANT money so they are paid as they go. But 100%? What motivation do any of them ever have to finish? I work freelance and I'd never get a single job if I demanded to be paid for it before I did it.

[olecapt]

Originally Posted by Grofica

in this market 99.9% of all construction business have changed their policies to they wont work without it paid for 100% prior to start.

That is nonsense. The only place I know where that is remotely true is if you deal with Lowe's or Home Depot...don't.

We often will directly pay for material and pay the labor as it is expended.

Haven't had an argument about that in ten years.

[Spraynard Kruger]

Originally Posted by Grofica

in this market 99.9% of all construction business have changed their policies.......

Not really. If anything, the opposite is true. If a company won't agree to those terms, they won't get my business. I always start with the contractors board and collect references. Way too many fly-by-night operations out here to do otherwise.

But don't feel bad, I've been burned too.