Building projects can run into a lot of money, especially if you need to repair your roof or want to add onto a home. It is critical because of that to take caution with who you hire and place your trust in. The majority of builders out here are honest, hardworking men, but a small minority are considered cowboy builders that will cheat you however they can. Hiring one of these men can cost you thousands of dollars, not only in lost money but in unfinished or shoddily built work. That's why it is necessary to be aware of the tell tale signs of a cowboy builder before you hire.
Cold calls are the most common sign of a dodgy builder. This is when someone knocks at the door looking for work. They come prepared and will show you where your roof or driveway needs to be repaired, and offer to do it for a small fee. This type of solicitation is unheard of in the construction industry. Reputable builders and companies are far too busy to knock door to door looking for work; they are busy working and allowing people to search them out.
Usually these cowboy builders are very charming. They ooze confidence and friendliness, making it hard to know whether they are a qualified person or not. And, they try to make it hard for you to question their abilities. Taking a look at their vehicle can help you decide, a professional will have a professional looking van, usually with a sign on it. Don't let his friendliness sway you, he may act like he is doing you a favor but what he is really doing is trying to swindle you.
Another common sign is the insistence on cash for their work. They will refuse checks and give you a multitude of reasons on why. Some will even use the line about saving money on taxes by paying in cash. Not only will they be very insistent on cash, they'll be insistent about no paperwork. Telling you that it is unnecessary and refuse to offer or sign a contract.
A reputable builder and company will provide you with a list of references without asking, unlike the cowboy who has no such list. When you ask for references they'll change the subject, claim they forgot the list and even try to tell you that it is okay, everyone knows him. No one should be hired without references to back up their abilities.
As mentioned above, builders that are good are busy and when hired may not be able to start for several weeks. A cowboy builder will want to begin right away, the same day or the next morning. Anyone that offers to start work immediately should be viewed with suspicion and research done before hiring.
Building projects and repairs on the home can be costly and you need to protect yourself when hiring someone. The good builders do outnumber the dodgy ones, but those cowboy builders are always trying to swindle their way in with charm and confidence and you need to be on your toes. That is why it is important to be able to recognize the tell tale signs of a cowboy builders so you don't get taken in by one.
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