651-212-4221
Mar 04, 2024
|

Steer Clear of These Seven Phrases When Interviewing Contractors

One of the most alarming trends in the home improvement industry is the volume of contractors that have operated under several names under the same ownership. Often when this happens, a contractor is likely trying to evade a slew of bad online reviews or even lawsuits.

Protect Yourself from Shady Contractors by Avoiding These Statements

Savvy homeowners know the right questions to ask contractors in order to weed out dishonest companies and storm chasers.  They even know to ask for references and the proper facts to inquire about.  However, even the most confident homeowners can get tripped up by these all too common statements to shady contractors, signaling that they are an easy target for scams.

insulation installation contractor in Twin Cities area

“You’re The Only Contractor I’m Interviewing”

Reputable contractors fully embrace the fact that most homeowners obtain at least three written estimates.  Estimates should be compared side-by-side to make sure that materials and labor costs are somewhat consistent. Disclosing to a contractor that you’re not soliciting multiple bids gives them free rein to inflate costs, as you’ll have no accurate way of determining if your quote is fair.

“I’m In No Rush To Have The Work Done”

Reputable contractors can easily book out for several months during peak season.  Being told by a homeowner that there’s no rush to start on their project, can push you to the back burner.  Prior to agreeing to work with a contractor, get a written estimate of when the project will start and finish.

roof removal

“Do You Provide a Cash Discount if I Pay in Full Today?”

It’s commonplace for reputable contractors to request 1/3 of your project price as a down payment. This allows them to secure the necessary materials for your project. However, paying for the entire project upfront in cash provides no incentive for a contractor to complete the project in a timely manner, if they even complete it all.

“I Can Pull The Permit for the Project”

A contractor that insists that the homeowner pull their own permit likely has something to hide.  It’s possible that they are not licensed or routinely experiences issues in the municipality that you live in.  If your name is on the permit and not the contractor’s, it’s you the city inspector will be calling with any questions or problems they have with your project.

cellulose insulation installed by Lindus Construction

“A Handshake Agreement Works for Me”

When you have the agreed-upon timeframes, project price, and materials in writing it keeps both parties on the same page.  This can also prove advantageous in the event that the contractor falls short on their commitment and legal action is required.

“Why Can’t You Work During Rain/Snow/Extreme Temperatures?”

If a contractor is unwilling to install your project and cites weather as a concern, it’s more than likely the concern is valid.  In too cold of temperatures, the adhesive on asphalt shingles will not stick as it should.  Putting up scaffolding during a blizzard is completely unsafe, framers need dry conditions to work, and concrete has temperature conditions.  Pressing pause on a project costs a contractor time and money, something they don’t take lightly.

“I Don’t Need to See a Copy of Your Insurance Policy”

Having these words leave your mouth can have catastrophic effects.  In the event that one of the contractor’s employees gets injured on the job site or your home is damaged during the project, you are liable if your contractor does not have enough insurance or fails to carry any at all. Ask for proof of insurance and pass on any contractor that fails to adequately insure themselves. It’s a telltale sign that they’re likely cutting corners in multiple facets of their business.

Contact us today to get started on your next home improvement project.

Browse Our Recent Twin Cities Home Improvement Projects:

Our Minnesota Home Home Improvement Reviews:

"We have been customers of Lindus Construction for many years. Our house is 30 years old. We’ve had them replace all our windows in several stages, the last of which was this summer when they also replaced our front door. During a recent visit, our city inspector commented on our beautiful front door and asked who installed it. When we told him it was Lindus, he responded, 'They always do such quality work.' Lindus will continue to be our go-to should further needs arise. We know we can count on them."

Colleen H.
Woodbury, MN
September 19, 2024

"Our estimator, Kevin, did an outstanding job. We have a complicated problem and he took the time to understand our issue and explored multiple possible solutions. I will not hesitate to call Lindus again for any construction problem or project I have in the future."

Bernie R.
Shakopee, MN
July 16, 2024

"We did a major re-insulation which included vacuuming out old insulation, spraying a layer of foam, and blowing in additional insulation. A different crew performed each operation. All did an excellent job. We'd use Lindus again for insulation work, though we hope never to need it again."

Bob J.
White Bear Lake, MN
May 25, 2024

"The folks at Lindus coordinated the many steps of our project perfectly and finished sooner that we had hoped. Kevin our siding foreman was especially conscientious in answering questions and doing the extra work to meet all our needs."

Dan R.
Balsam Lake, WI
May 22, 2024

"Jake did a great job of understanding my needs for a piano window that needed replacement. His team followed his plan."

Bonnie B.
Minneapolis, MN
April 17, 2024

"Lindus Construction replaced our shingles on Monday. They did a fantastic job. They arrived at 7am and finished by 3pm. They did an amazing job and I would recommend them to anyone.  Just like anything in life. you get what you pay for and we are 100% satisfied."

Pat S.
Plymouth, MN
April 5, 2024
Contact Us To Schedule A Free Estimate. Receive A Free Heat Map Analysis With Your Insulation Estimate.
Some restrictions may apply. Call for details.