10 Steps for Hiring Service Professionals

1. Confirm the sales person works for the company.
     · Verify that the individual with whom you are speaking is an authorized agent of the company that was referred by ServiceMagic.

2. Ask for a copy of the company's license.
     · Ask the company to provide a copy of their license. It is important that you verify the license is still in good standing. Remember that you can find a list of your state's licensing requirements on the ServiceMagic website.

3. Ask for proof of insurance.
     · Ask the company to provide a copy of their insurance certificate. We recommend that you verify with the insurance agency or carrier that the policy is still in good standing.

4. Finalize the contract before starting on a project.
      A good contract...
      · Should be written on company letterhead
      · Should contain the company's name, address, phone numbers, and license         number (if applicable)
      · Should contain the consumer's name, address (where work is to be performed),
        and phone numbers
      · Is dated when it is written
      · Includes a detailed description of the work that is going to be performed
      · Provides dollar amounts associated with each task included in the project
      · Includes an anticipated start and finish date
      · Provides a payment schedule
      · Includes a termination clause
      · Contains a clause that protects you the homeowner from any potential mechanics liens
        once you have paid the contractor in full
      · Clearly states whether permits will be pulled, and who will be responsible for pulling them

5. Make payments to the company that was referred.
     · Do not pay an individual.

6. Avoid paying with cash.
     · Check and credit cards are preferable, and be sure to get a receipt for all payments.

7. Withhold final payment until you are satisfied with the project.
      · Don't pay in full until the project is completely finished and you have completed
        your final inspection.
      · If sub-contractors were used, be sure to get signed releases from all sub contractors
        clearly indicating that they have been paid in full by the general contractor.
      · For larger projects, don't make the final payment until you have passed the final
        building inspection.

8. Don't advance money for materials.
     · If absolutely necessary, make sure the materials are delivered to your house with a
       receipt showing that they have been paid in full.

9. Check multiple references.
     · In addition to reading the company's ServiceMagic Ratings & Reviews, consider checking
       additional references for the service professional.

10. Document all changes to the contract.
     · Make sure all changes to the original contact, no matter how small, are documented
       and signed off by both parties.