Ten Steps for Hiring Service Professionals

#1. Confirm the salesperson works for the company.

· Verify that the individual with whom you are speaking is an authorized agent of the company.

#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. Be aware that certain states licensing requirements are based on dollar amounts and not project type.

#3. Ask for proof of insurance.

· Ask the company to provide a copy of their insurance certificate. BTF recommends that you verify with the insurance agency or carrier the policy is in good standing. General Liability insurance covers a contractor for accidents that occur while the contractor is working, however there are exclusions to coverage, and you should confirm the actual scope of the contractors’ coverage directly with the contractor.

BTF recommends that you obtain a copy of the service professional's insurance certificate where applicable.

#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 your name, address, 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 from any potential mechanics liens.

· Clearly states if permits are pulled, and who is 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 subcontractors 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 inspection.

#8. Don't advance money for materials.

· If absolutely necessary, make sure the materials are delivered with a receipt showing that they have been paid in full.

#9. Check multiple references.

#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.

Ken Roys, CEO

BTF Management Consultants Inc

866-385-1900 Toll Free

713-983-7904 Fax