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Tips
For Hiring A Contractor
- Is
the contractor licensed and / or are they Master Licensed?
Remember, there is no requirement for licensing within New
York State, except within the City of Syracuse. There are
many companies that sprout up daily and claim to be experienced.
How do you really know if they are Master Licensed? Don't
be afraid to ask to see their license card.
- Is
the company reputable and how long have they been in business?
Check references and ask for a NYS business certificate.
- Is
the company insured? Be sure to ask for an insurance certificate
for liability, workers compensation and auto. Did you know
it is not mandatory for a company to obtain liability insurance?
If damage was done to your property, you would not be covered.
- What
kind of guarantee will they provide for the work they are
proposing? Be sure to get it in writing.
- Is
the work they are proposing equivalent to what you requested
and is it equivalent to other bids? In other words, is their
bid apples to apples? Be sure the estimator explains the method
for which the job will be performed and be sure to obtain
a typed proposal, never accept a price verbally and always
read the fine print.
- Will
the contractor be filing for a permit for the job and if no,
why not? Though some jobs do not require a permit, it's still
a good idea to know for your protection. Did you know that
an insurance company can refuse to pay a claim if you tried
to collect from damages caused from an electrical fire if
the work was not performed by a licensed professional and
a permit was not filed?
- Is
your goal to obtain the lowest price or are you concerned
with quality and professionalism? Electricity is dangerous
and if not installed properly by trained professionals, it
can be fatal. Look for sure signs of professionalism.
- Who
will be doing the job and how much experience do the electricians
have and will they have identification on their uniforms and
vehicles so you know who they are when they come to your door?
Is is very important to know since you are inviting total
strangers into your home.
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