Modifying your home is a huge project. Whether you are trying to update it or adding on, you need to ensure that you are working with a contractor who is going to get the job done the way you want it. Finding out later that you hired someone who does shoddy work or who doesn’t show up at all can be the start of a very difficult situation.

There are several things that you can watch for when you are vetting out contractors. There might be little things that just make the situation seem off. Pay attention to those because they might be the thing that saves you from working with someone who is just out to scam you.

When you are going over a project with a contractor who is bidding on the job, you should be as detailed as possible. They need to know the full scope of what you want to done so that they can provide you with an accurate estimate. The estimate they provide should include a description of what it includes. While you might think that this can be just a general outline, a more detailed description can work in your favor if there is ever a question about what you wanted done.

You should take the time to verify that they have a current license number for the type of work they are doing, as well as a valid insurance policy. Make sure that you contact references to find out if they are still happy with the job that was done and if they recommend the contractor.

If something happens and you aren’t getting the work that you paid for, you do have legal options. Review the contract to determine exactly what you need to do.