restoration contractor in Billings MT

Finding the right restoration contractor is a big deal. It can be the difference between quality work that lasts and work that falls apart after a short period of time. It can also be the difference between getting your job done at a fair price or getting ripped off by a scammer. People in the U.S. spend more than $500 billion a year on remodeling, so unfortunately it’s a place where you will find dishonest contractors. Here are four signs of an honest restoration contractor in Billings, MT.

1: They Don’t Ask for Money Up Front

One of the most common scams you find is a contractor who asks for some or all of the money for your project up front to purchase materials or equipment to get started, but the end result is the same: either they take the money and run, or the work is poor quality but you can’t fire them because they have your money. While a small deposit may be required for contractors who have a busy schedule and need to make sure you won’t cancel, it should never be more than about 10 percent of job cost or $1000, whichever is less.

2: They Make Sure to Sign a Contract

No matter how friendly and trustworthy a Billings restoration contractor might seem, it’s never a good idea to have someone start a job without a signed contract in place that includes:

• The total estimated cost of the job
• The projected start and finish dates
• Any included upgrades or extras
• A process for address unforeseen expenses or issues

Without this information, you may see the scope of the job or the price start to change when those “unforeseen problems” surface, and there’s not much you can do about it legally without a contract.

3: They Get All Necessary Permits

Permits are often required for significant restorations so officials can make sure the work meets safety requirements. A dishonest contractor might try to convince you that they don’t need it, or ask you to apply for one instead of them—then if something goes wrong, you’ll be the one who has to answer to the authorities.

4: They Don’t Pressure You to Buy Now

Some scammers will come door to door and tell you they can offer you a great price on restoration projects in Billings, or pressure you to sign up now to get the best price. These high-pressure sales tactics force you to make a decision before you can research the contractor, which is never a good idea. Instead, find a contractor that wants you to do some reference checks because they know they do great work.