It may be time to consider some home repairs. Are you thinking of doing the work yourself? Perhaps you do not have the tools or the skills to complete the work. You may not have the time that it takes. Often times, it is best to hire professional help. Make sure that you choose a licensed and reputable contractor. There are many con men or cowboys, that pose as contractors. They are in business for one reason. That reason is to take your money. It is important to know the tell tale signs of a cowboy builder.
A knock on the door
Someone may knock on your door some day. Perhaps they notice that your driveway or roof needs work. By coincidence this person fixes things like that. This is usually a red flag, that something is wrong. Reputable contractors do not have to canvas door to door. They have clients that recommend them to others. When they solicit work, it is normally through newspaper or online ads.
Working from his truck
A con man may have his office in his truck or van. Perhaps he has a cell phone number. You will not see an office number on his business card. He probably does not have a business card. He does not want anyone to find him. There are very likely, many people looking for him.
Very low quote
Does he quote you an extremely low price for the work? There is usually good reason for this. He does not plan on doing any work. An honest contractor cannot work for very low prices.
Payment ahead of time
If anyone asks you for the money upfront, this is a bad sign. Reputable contractors do not conduct business this way. If someone cannot afford to buy materials, there is something wrong. A con man will make excuses for needing the money. Perhaps he has very low overhead. Actually he wants the money now, so he can disappear.
Cash payment
Does he only accept cash as payment? There is usually good reasons for this. There is no way to trace down cash. The con man does not own a bank account. There is no way he can cash a check. When you give him your cash, it will soon be gone.
Summary
Beware if someone knocks on your door and wants to do home repairs. He will probably quote you a very low price. He will want the money in cash, before he starts work. He will not have a business card or a proper office to work from. These are a few of the tell tale signs of a cowboy builder.
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