Hire a Qualified Contractor

When selecting a contractor or company to work on your home, consider some important advice:

Before you hire a contractor, verify the company’s business address and reputation.

Insist on a complete, clearly written contract.

DO ask for references. 

Select a few companies and ask for written estimates. Look for professional designations, if applicable, to the type of project you need done.

Be aware of warning signs for scams. These might include: 

• You’re told that on this job, a contract “won’t be necessary.”
• You’re asked to pay for the entire job “up front”—or pay cash to a salesperson instead of a check or money order to a company.
• You are confronted with scare tactics.
• You’re told you’ve been “chosen” as a demonstration project at a special, low price.
• You’re told a low price is good only if you sign a contract today.
• The contractor won’t give you references—or the references can’t be located.
• You can’t verify the contractor’s business address.

Search for a FLHBRA member business, or search for a FLHBRA builder.

Remember to check out resources such as the Better Business Bureau.

Ask for references