We’ve all seen and read about scam artists who profess to be building professionals but once they get an up-front payment, they can’t be found and the work isn’t done.  There are some key questions that you should ask before you hire a Myrtle Beach home improvement pro to tackle the project that you have planned and anticipated for some time.  If you’ll follow this simple advice, you won’t fall victim to someone who just wants to take your money.  The questions that you should ask are:

1.    Can you produce proof of a license, certification or the professional associations to which you belong?

2.    Are you bonded?

3.    Can you give me three former clients who will verify your quality of work?

4.    What are your specialties-bathrooms, kitchens, or remodels?  What type of jobs do you not like to do?

5.    Will you secure the permits for the project?

6.    What amount of money will I have to pay up-front for the work?

7.    Do you have a regular team of sub-contractors or do you use different crews on each job?

8.    If there is a problem, how will we work together to find a solution for the situation? Does your contract specify the details of conflict resolution?

9.    How often are you on the job to supervise your crews and to evaluate the progress that’s being made?

10.    How will we communicate?  Do you use a cell phone, text, or are you available by email?
 
11.    How often can I expect the job site to be cleaned up?

12.    When the work is completed will you provide me with a lien release?

All of these questions are reflective of how your home improvement pro does business with you and his other clients.  You’ll want to enter into a binding contract with the expert that states how, when, and where the work will be done, a suggested time frame for the work, a payment schedule, and how problems will be addressed.  You’ll also want to do a punch list at the end of the project; this is a walk-through by you to inspect the work that’s been done which produces a list of touch-ups that need to be done by the home improvement team.  This is usually drywall and paint touch-ups and other minor things you notice that should be addressed.

By asking for a business card or by visiting the pro’s website address you can see how they do business, perhaps read some testimonials from previous clients, and view the quality of work that they will provide for you.  You should never be embarrassed about asking these pointed questions before any payment is rendered; asking questions assures you that the home improvement pro is legitimate and will do a good job for your project.