Metro construction company doing bad business...tips to protect yourself!

Hey guys and girls...we continue our investigation into a metro construction company. All Pro Construction is accused of ripping off its customers. In each case, the homeowners say All Pro either did shoddy work or took their money and failed to ever start the job. We were able to find help for two of the homeowners. All Pro Siding and Windows (excellent company with a stellar Better Business Bureau rating) is doing one of the jobs free of charge and Larry Crockett (he owns a roofing company in Edmond) has agreed to help out our elderly victim in Del City....a big thank you to both companies!!!

I know hiring a contractor of any sort can be a bit of stress...but make sure to do your homework or you could also find yourself in a pickle. I pulled tips from the Federal Trade Commission's web page and posted them below...Read up!!!!

1.) Get recommendations from friends, relatives, neighbors, co-workers, insurance agents, or claims adjusters.
2.) Deal only with licensed and insured contractors.
3.) Check with the local Better Business Bureau and Home Builders Association to see if complaints have been lodged against any contractor you’re considering.
4.) Be skeptical of contractors who encourage you to spend a lot of money on temporary repairs.
5.) Get a written estimate that includes any oral promises the contractor made. Remember to ask if there’s a charge for an estimate before allowing anyone into your home.
6.) Take your time about signing a contract. Ask for explanations for price variations, and don’t automatically choose the lowest bidder.
7.) Resist dealing with any contractor who asks you to pay for the entire job up-front. A deposit of one-third of the total price is standard. Pay only by check or credit card and pay the final amount only after the work is completed to your satisfaction. Don’t pay cash.
8.) Ask a knowledgeable friend, relative or attorney to review a home repair contract before you sign. Get a copy of the final, signed contract before the job begins.
9.) Ask the contractor you choose to provide a lien waiver before starting your job. This is a receipt that says the workers and suppliers of material will not ask you for money once you have paid the contractor. In any case, don’t sign a consent of owner statement: it says you, the property owner, will cover the costs of materials and labor if the contractor doesn’t pay.

I'm Scott Hines...In Your Corner!

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I'm Scott Hines...In Your Corner!