Last year I dropped a screwdriver through the toilet flange on the 2nd floor into the drainage pipe. called a plumbing contractor to put a snake with a camera through there to find the screwdriver to fish it out they did not have a camera he suggested tearing apart my downstairs living room ceiling and walls to find all the pipes to start busting them open I told them just put the flange on and that's it and he charged me he told me he said $150 to put a flange on he put the flange on and then wrote the bill for 400 I never paid him. Called another company later that day they came out with a camera and a snake they found the screwdriver in the pipe all the way down in the basement unscrewed the cap and took it right out took 15 minutes no damage cost me 40 bucks plus a $20 tip so is 60 total.
Well this is timely video. Just today I had to report my electrian to the Police, Attorney General, the FTC, BBB, the state and the county department of construction, oh and my bank to see if I can get my money back. Been a living nightmare and I’m the one left feeling embarrassed because I have to find another electrician to fix the mess. I feel contractors right now think they can treat us any old way, do shoddy work and get away with it. The reputation of contractors is going downhill….. it’s hard to trust them.
Know who you are working with and educate yourself. I asked 3 roofing companies to give me an assessment and quote for repairs on a home I purchased. I know a few things needed done. 1 company quoted me a complete new roof $16,000 with little explanation other than square footage of the roof. Company 2 no showed for an appointment and reschedule with me an hour after they were supposed to be there. I gave them a second shot and they quoted about 2-3k. The last company to come out did a great walk through with me told me exactly what needed done and that the roof was actually in great shape. Then they walked me through repairs they quoted for $500 or I could do it myself with a trip to Home Depot and about $120. Even offered to have me call about specific questions if I do the work. 3 companies 3 majorly different answers. To be upfront I do a lot of DYI and I had an idea of what needed done. Company 3 was the most honest and clear. I would call them back any day.
I got screwed over by a contractor who rebuilt my porch deck one time. He asked for the last payment before he was done because my bank wasn't local and he said it took time for my check to clear. Of course he never came back and finished after that and left a pile of debris for me to clear up to boot. I investigated suing him and as it turned out EVERYTHING was in his ex-wife's name, the business, the vehicles, the equipment. He still lived with her but they got a divorce when his customers and creditors started calling as a way to safeguard their assets. THAT is the main reason I invested in tools and learned to do everything else myself.
Yeah I've been experiencing a lot of that, on a more minor scale. "I'll come back and clean all this up" "I'll fix this small mistake" etc. NOPE. They never do.
Another point to consider is if the builder is dismissive of the client if she's a woman. My builder knows I do the design decision, and has never once asked "when does your husband get home" - it makes a HUGE difference. I also try to be a good client with clear directions and quick payment. FInding a good builder to use on projects over the years is one of the ways I have lucked out with updating our house!
It's also true that if you are a woman, you will not be working for contractors gaining experience. Everything will be your fault and you'll be given busy work that does not train or give experience until you quit. Why I'm self-employed.
This is valuable info - maybe more valuable than the DIY how-to videos. I was a Super for a couple of years at a GC - that stuff about the constant calls of guys trying to kick the can down the road is accurate. Crazy frustrating. Also true that the number of good contractors and help is dwindling and the guys that are out there are being pushed to their limit. And when you reach a certain age, it's obvious how much this kind of work destroys the body. If you're gonna be your own GC, there's a special blend of empathy, assertiveness and spot-on communication. I was not good at it and got out - too much empathy. Hiring people as a home-owner, there's a tendency to be suspicious and untrusting and that destroys rapport fast. Ironing out a bullet proof contract with a detailed scope of work and payment terms will save communication breakdowns later. Build to plan and spec. That thing is gospel. Also gotta be crystal clear that their work is going to be reviewed every step of the way and if it's wrong they're going to be asked to do it again. They should be comfortable with being photographed for the Daily Log. Someone has to document the day to day. Great job Jeff.
I wish I watched this a year ago before my fire restore. Would've saved me tens of thousands of dollars! This is all great advice, I hope everyone takes it.
This is such a great video. I'm a former realtor (Sutton Group, Royal LePage) and certified Home Inspector (Humber College). Jeff brings together so much knowledge from all these different worlds in one digestible instruction. There are pieces of knowledge here that I knew, such as the construction lien process we studied at OREA, but Jeff really brings home the practical, real-world side of how you have to approach such issues. I'm presently a consultant for the province of Ontario... I wish we would publish a 'checklist' of things you 'need to do'... but I guess we have Jeff for that!
Great video! What does a homeowner do if a project is "finished," the contractor/subcontractor have all been paid, but then you keep finding elements of poor workmanship/deliberate vandalism/damage, etc."
As a trade sub contractor we have the 3 GC's we work for AND NO ONE ELSE. We've been burned too many times, trying to get the last 10-20% that's owed on our part. When talking with the homeowners, yup they paid the GC but he didn't pay. So, we only work with premium GC that we know and have a track record. If we change out a furnace or boiler for a homeowner, directly minimum 50% deposit. It's a one or 2 day job. If you can't pay 50% you can't afford the work. Do, I walk away from work? Yes all the time, but my business is healthy, profitable and my WCB and insurance are paid.., and so are my employees. AND we do quality work that I'm proud to show anyone.
In CA more than 10% down is illegal, max $1,000. On an $8000 window replacement my contractor required $5,000 down then wouldn't deliver and install the windows unless I paid the balance of $3,000. Wouldn't even show a photo of the windows they had ready. I tried to cancel but they told me the 5,000 would be forfeited as a penalty but wasn't in the invoice agreement. Then the windows were not the style I ordered, much smaller than the wall frame so had large gaps covered with vinyl strips, and windows were 2 different brands. I had single horizontal sliders before. They changed them out for 2 single hungs mulled together. I think they used what was laying around in their warehouse. Unfortunately I had govt training I couldn't get out of and were installed while I was away. My elderly mother voiced that they weren't what I ordered but the subcontractor convinced her I changed the order. A huge disappointment. I feel taken advantage of. I contacted the CA Contractor Licensing board and learned it's illegal for a contractor to demand 100% up front. It was a one in a life time project for me as this is my forever home. I had a big expansive view before, lots of glass with only 1/2" frame widths. Now it's 4 square windows 4" frame widths and 8" mull. My view is now obstructed and I lost alot of glass. I wrote a 1 star review showing before and after photos and the contractor then threatened me with libel. The whole ordeal put me into a depression.
Just discovered your channel a month ago, I have to admit that I have watched at least one video every day since....It's become part of my nightly wear down mind routine..I'm in Michigan and you are so dead on about the labor shortage for the "handyman"!!
We are first time buyers and Jeff and his Jeffometer will echo hallways as we stand there with our recommended 5 tools ready to do jobs with confidence
Always enjoy your presentations - always interesting and informative even if I personally can't do or don't need (plus you make all things 'fun'). But this one is excellent 'food for thought', not only for those planning a reno but for anyone to keep in mind if ever suddenly faced with 'needing' a reno (as another commenter here experienced after a fire.) We're in such crazy times these days, it's hard enough just to be a consumer of goods . . . services is a whole other topic! Thank you!
Wow fantastic video - they don’t teach this in school. So many of us hope and pray these contractors are acting in good faith. Your steps are excellent parameters. I wonder how many contractors would walk away from these requests
Not the good ones.... And that's the point. If a client asked to speak to a current client: awesome! Want to see my contract? Sure Want to see my payment schedule? No prob Want a detailed list of specifications and materials? Already included Want an up to date copy of my schedule? I'll send you a login for access. This stuff isn't hard for a proper contractor to do. But for an edge of his seat, barely getting by, not charging enough, contractor? It's going to take him too long to get organized enough to prove it to you and he will just disappear. Which is good
Always get waivers of liens. A waiver of lien states that the contractor or supplier waves it right to lien your property. Not just the contractor or sub contractor but the suppliers as well. You could have a roofing contractor who bought the materials on credit and if the roofer fails to pay the supplier, the roofing supplier will come and slap a lien on your house, they don't care if you paid the roofer. This is especially true for materials delivered to the job site such as concrete, roofing and lumber, the big stuff. All subcontracted trades need to provide a waiver of lien at completion of the job for both labor and materials. Let's say you paid out of pocket for all the costs of your project and later decided to refinance your home or sell it. A mortgage company will be looking for all those waivers to ensure a ticked off supplier or contractor doesn't lien your home. Title insurance companies are good at managing pay outs on construction projects and can insure your home will be free of liens by paying the contractors.
Excellent non nonsense experience recommendations. Based on my experience, I am adding one recommendation if you planning to do $30,000 plus renovation work! Hire some one to make a sketches describing the work to be done, including the specifications for the the important items: bathtub, shower, sink, cabinets, faucets ... This documents will then be used to request bids. Ask bids with detailed costs and detailed schedule. I would be better if the contract is written by your layers.
Another thing worth mentioning is that customers can utilize payment through a credit card as insurance when a project isn't completed. Paying by credit allows a customer to chargeback their credit card for not receiving what they paid for. This will put the payment into an investigation whether services or product was rendered.
As long as you're ok with the 4% surcharge. Diff states have diff legislation but where I live: I can directly pass along the merchant service fees to clients. I'd rather do that than charge all clients 4%
Absolutely true to make sure that the people you're working and a lot of money is being exchanged, it's good to use these as a guideline. Some exceptions do apply like relying on word-of-mouth and personal recommendations that people will do everything they can to live up to their personal referrals. My suggestion is to judge and gauge quality of their character before their quality of work.
I basically become my own contractor. I go to my local not big box store day I have this job in doing who do you have that comes in here who does that. Then I interview them and pick who I want. Then when jobs are done I call them back for more jobs and I'm flexible with when my project needs to be done. Meaning I do small projects that the sub contractor can squeeze in between his bigger jobs or if there stalled out waiting for inspections for other jobs. It's worked out great for us and then they get referred from us to family and friends for other jobs. Everyone is happy in the end.
I read like that you made this video because most people don't think about all these things when looking to hire a contractor. Been watching your DIY videos for years keep up the great work!
Professional contractors very clearly layout a payment schedule in their contracts. If a contract does not include a payment schedule for your project. You are not dealing with a professional, if there isn't a payment schedule in the contract.
Lol I get these videos get views since there are more home owners than contractors, but when home owners get screwed by contractors 95 percent t of the time they just went with some shady dude because he was cheap.
I always charge 60% deposit. Covers the goods. No less than this. The job is not that important to lose thousands of dollars if the home owner changes their mind
@@8873kym If there’s a slightest thing that seams off (rudeness, throwing in my face they are shopping around, or they have lots of family who need my services- and few more reasons) I always throw in an A- hole fee. If you know there’s no way you want to work for them (no amount of money is worth it) then just say your over booked. You get the price up too high with an A-Hole you may never make them happy because the expectations are set too high by the cost.
With carpentry renovation skills I have decided to BE the Contractor MYSELF.....I look for the sub contractors, drafts person, structural engineer-if needed. I get the permit, get electrical people, ICF subcontractor, framing subcontractor. I buy and order the windows.....I am so fed up here on Prince Edward Island there are too many risks looking for a competent contractor......who inflames the prices of what you want to purchase.....so exhausting interviewing, taking visits to contractor worksites....so disappointment....Good lucky everyone....and thanks Jeff for this important advice. 🙏 🇨🇦
One red flag you missed here: the contractor demands a significant amount of the payments be cash or will only accept cash as a payment. This is important because I don't think many homeowners understand how little protection cash gives them when dealing with a shady contractor. As you said, a good contractor has their house in order and doesn't need the homeowner to finance all of their operation. They can handle waiting for the banks to process a check or credit card. A bad, albeit not shady, contractor that cannot wait for banks to process anything but cash could basically run out at any point then demand more. A shady contractor will take your money and run. As I like to point out too it's not like the contractor doesn't know where their clients live.
As a contractor, a deposit pays for the materials and there are progressive payments as the project progresses as specified in the contract. I do not finance projects.
Hello, Jeff. Lots of good stuff here. The only thing that you might add is that certain things can be different from region to region. I worked in multiple U.S. states before moving to Texas and the construction culture here is unlike anywhere else. It really confused me my first couple of years here, and now I see that same thing happening to people that move here from other places. I DO plan on putting together a video of my own with those specific differences to help people out.
I sure wish I had you about 5 years ago! We embarked on our home, as our own contractors and had thought we would have the work and guidance of a ‘friend’. He turned out to be the spawn of Satan, and a full grade alcoholic (contractor bags full of cans) needless to say, he did not have his house in order. He was an underdog for a reason! Very traumatic and expensive lesson! I’m just emotionally over it all.
Thank you! Excellent video. I'm in the process of hiring a plumber to repair some water damage, etc. Small job. I made up a list of how I see it happening (remove subfloor, vanity, replace subfloor, replace vanity, a few specs re the flooring I purchased (and will install myself) etc. But I forgot about the payment part. The 10% up front is a good idea and also I'll pay for materials delivered when he gives me the invoice. Hoping it's just a few days, so I'll pay the rest at the end of the job.
I usually leave only critical negative reviews on channels on TH-cam my negative review for you is why aren't there more people like you out there especially in the states. In Canada there are but in the US it's every man for himself it sucks. good ol greed and dishonesty of capitalism.
Well I'm a lawyer. My fiance is a lawyer. Her parents are both lawyers. Even then we ended with a shitty contract because it was such a hassle to drill down a contract with a contractor or find some contractor who will. There is a pro to this relationship as changes are alot more flexible, and we get something done without pay etc. That being said it was also big deal of stress with them taking their time with the renovation.
Can you do a video to warn people about "piggyback" retrofit windows? In Vancouver, they're a common way of installing "new windows" in homes, but the glass area is always smaller and the massive frames have to be hidden with tons of trim on the inside. I don't know how much money it saves for the installer, and whether the homeowner sees any savings as a result, but I only found out that it was done this way recently, thanks to a Reddit post.
Herbert Stewart of R&S Facility Services LLC is one of the worst contractors in south florida. He had 3 jobs around my house. Messed up all of them and never finished. He's a sheister!
Had a contractor I've used for 5 years on small to medium jobs with good price, slightly below average work. Quotes me 2 weeks and great price for drywall, floor and ikea kitchen install on open floor 750sqr foot. half the drywall already done. I expected it to be double the time. 10 weeks later and i find out he's only working it some weekends because he took other jobs. now I'm 3 months out rent and at risk of losing insurance.
First time homeowner, one of the recommendations you missed (though part of the "upfront" vetting and redlining) is to get a direct answer from a GC about their relationships to subs and products. Have them all selected/acknowledged/agreed-upon before. Some are proxy-salespeople in disguise --- actually scratch that if they've been around long enough they ALL are to some degree (even Jeff! =P). In my new & limited experience if you haven't picked out a specific something (for example: countertops) they will walk away if you don't comply with their non-declared partnership. If you already put down a deposit, you'll likely never see it again.
There is zero chance i would allow a prospective client to come to another clients house. It's not about the work, it's someone else's house, I'm not allowed to invite strangers.
Coming from a licensed remodeling contractor. Please do more research. Do not blindly trust the advice in this video without communicating with several qualified professionals. There are many RedFlags in this video, were untrue or misleading advice was given. Knowing the qualifications of someone who you take advice from is very important.
Having my wife act as our GC when she's actually a project manager for a huge construction company who manages projects worth hundreds of millions is hilarious. Let's all be honest sexism is alive and well in the world of contracting and I've seen many a sub trade have no idea who they were dealing with when they tried to "little lady" her. Seeing for example, a painter (who did a terrible job) squirm when they get a professional deficiency report prior to payment as per the contract is the only silver lining to bad work.
Great video. I was a contractor for 14 years, I spect builder.idid'nt have to deal with to many people.just subs. Even with my experience I would not GC my own house. The relationships are just not there.
This is great and timely for me. I have a price of $400,000 from a contractor to add a 24 x 24 garage, an 11 x 15 office, extend the kitchen out 14 ft, remodel an 14 x 12 existing kitchen. The current sq ft of the whole house is 2,100. Way over priced from my viewpoint. Plus they want $75K down upfront. They have all subs. Just to manage the project they want $90K. I can’t be my own GC because of NC law. What are your thoughts?
Get another quote. If its apples to apples and similar in price: you just can't afford it. If its apples to apples and different price: what extra value is the more expensive guy giving? Better quality? Speed? Organization? Materials? Or is the more expensive guys business just more overhead or profit hungry? Doesn't mean his price is bad, but maybe you'll get better value from a company without a showroom, or 10 project managers, radio ads etc. Just cause you think something costs too much doesn't mean it is: the only way you'll know is by getting another quote.
If 90k is the profit, overhead, and supervision of the project (the total markup on the job) then in my neck of the woods, it's probably low. Remodelers are usually 8-15% profit, 25-35% overhead (including supervision). But Im in Canada. Some States have lower labour rates.
@@mudmanKC I responded to your message before seeing this one. I did get a second quote and they $60K more. It an attractive area and people moving in are willing to pay. Thanks for info. You are definitely up on remodeling and much much more. Gene.
Get multiple quotes, but also why in the world would you agree to all of this upfront? Piecemeal it out and then you can base future work upon the quality of what was already delivered.
Thank you! Excellent video. Always enjoy and find informative as well as entertaining. Im in the process of hiring a contractor for residing the whole house. (old LP Siding) Have not been able to get the contractors to give out customers phone numbers and (sometimes) addresses, clamming "personal information". (The job is going to be around $30,000.) I don't know how to get around that. Tips? I live in Oregon. I am female . But have been able to check if they are licensed and bonded.
**Not all contractors use debt to run a business** I run a debt free business. lol "Having your house in order" can mean many things. to me it means dont borrow money whenever possible..
I think it’s smart to pay with a credit card. If something goes terribly wrong and the contractor does not want to fix the problem and keep my money I contact my credit card company and ask for a charge back. That will probably get there attention. Protect yourself.
You can not in the USA get a framing inspection or "Building Inspection" without first completing the mechanical inspections... Maybe in Canada they do things different... Again please please get advice from several professionals. Jeff may or may not understand the rules and regulations for your project.
Boy Jeff, I was making all sorts of sounds that I can't even spell to type them in here! Mostly it all sounds like some version of a nightmare, hence diy if you can! So much good info and don't say I didn't warn you advice! Why gatorade?
Those are two different things in my opinion deliberat sabotage is intentional, shoddy workmanship is lazy and the work shoddy these days seems like a word that was once used to be hurtful against a people.
Engage a contractor during the design period. Seperate architect, seperate contractor but have the contractor provide budget pricing on the design as it's developed. Expect to pay for this service but it helps keep the architects design from being a budget breaker. Architects are notorious for designing wonderful spaces that you can't afford then blaming the contractor for being too expensive. Engage and pay them both. Speeds up the preconstruction planning process too since the contractors bid is already developed over the month(s) of planning.
For deposits, what I require of customers scales based on total cost of a project. Most times I space things out in milestones based on stages of project completion. This makes the customer comfortable with releasing funds based on progression. However my scale method helps to weed out customers who may not be in a position to hire a project let alone fulfill the total cost. If I'm doing a project below $5000 and a $2500 project initiation fee is too much for them, it's a glaring red flag that the customer is not prepared to afford the project or plans on not paying. Rarely do I front the cost of beginning a project unless there are special circumstances. Doing it this way, I filter myself out of clientele that are tire kickers, scammers or cheapskates that try to get work done for nothing, it saves me time and headache. Now when it comes to projects beyond 25,000 or into the 1,000,000+ range like a Tarion home build, everything is on paper, witnessed by my lawyer, completely transparent with the client and is entirely scaled by milestones. Project initiation is done when proof of project financing is provided and no deposit is needed because of the contractual commitment.
Anyone can come in, take a 50% payment, and leave never to be seen again. Of course your clients dont want to pay you this upfront. We cant afford to have 4 of you come in and waste 200% of our budget with nothing to show for it. Do the work = get paid. Stop asking for money you dont deserve and didnt work for.
@@nadias6435 These are the people I avoid. Small projects are almost not worth my time. If $2500 is too much money for someone, clearly I should avoid them. On my end I have everything above board, everything is documented and invoiced. The client has all the power to get their funds back if I skipped town.
Which are the worst trades/contractors? From my experience it’s roofers. Most don’t do anything or do as little work as possible. If there are issues they never return. I’m now thinking I have to endanger myself to do the job myself. They play on people’s fears.
Does the state you live in determine what inspections are needed, i.e. electrical, plumbing, etc. When you do a remodel. If so, where do I go for this information?
Hey Jeff, as a contractor who receives 10% up front as a deposit as you mentioned , how did you handle a client cancelling after giving you the 10% deposit? Was it refundable or non refundable or a only portion of it?
I hope that you can assist me. I need to buy software that compares bids side by side and identifies pricing and scope discrepancies, etc.. All suggestions would be appreciated. I only work with contractors who break down their bids,. It is overwhelming to analyze bids from 4-5 contractors with 200+ line items in each bid. I am not a construction professional; although, I have hired several contractors in the past few years for both small projects and major residential renovations. So, I am not a newbie and I am very capable using software with a steep learning curve. Thank you.
DIY is a great option, but for a lot of people a contractor is actually the better deal. If you don't own the tools, have the skill set, and make a low enough amount that it's worth your time then fiscally you should just hire the contractor. Now if you enjoy it, that is a different thing.
I had my first contractor come the other day to do my small 5x7 bathroom he tells me 10k but I need to buy the tile the vanity the medicine cabinet.. toilet buy and get shower doors fitted and the shower head and accessories for shower I laughed in his face on to the next one keep in mind no plumbing or anything it electrical is being moved as well
We want to fully gut/remodel our home plus add a garage amd master suite. In order to do this we will need a loan. Unfortunately our bank is saying we have to get a quote from a contractor for the total cost, even though we plan to do as much as possible on our own. In my area(and I'm assuming many others)Contractors are extremely hard to get them to even respond, and the couple we have got to actually come to give a quote have taken literal months and we still have no quotes. Are there other options to go about this?
Hi, if you ask to pay for the consultation/quote, you’ll find someone. We’re overloaded with people asking for “free” quotes. We’re overloaded with people asking for 5-10 free quotes and never end-up buying from anyone. If that’s not your case, you need to communicate accordingly so you don’t get assimilated with other tire kickers. Cheers !
Pay to fully plan the job. 4-7% of the job cost. Once the job is planned you'll have everything you need to hire it out, professionally planned and ready to go. The contractor will be disappointed but you paid him for his time- no hard feelings.
@@mudmanKC She wants to DIY as much as possible (huge red flag she doesn't want to pay a fair price). Do you really think she's gonna pay someone 4-7% to do a pre-construction study ? People are so used to "free" quotes that they don't want to pay a dime for what they call "nothing". Get qualified advice based on years of experience for an hour is "nothing". I mean, we all go to the doctor to get that same "nothing", it lasts 5-15 minutes and we pay for it. Generally, people don't value a consultation from a contractor the same way they value a consultation from a doctor. Even worse, they get the "free" quote/consultation and go get a cheaper price with all that info. Bottom line, if there is any red flag the prospect is cheap, difficult, shopping for the best price, most of us don't even bother giving a quote. "I need the permission of the bank to hire you", "We'll self-perform as much as possible", "We pay for the material, we just want labour and the list of what we have to buy. Can you get us a better price for material ? And can you go pick-it up ? For free, because 20% mark-up just to drive to the store is too much. It's part of the job after all, isn't it ?". "Is there any benefit to paying cash ?". That type of stuff. All red flags.
GCs like you are the red flag actually. You overquote for everything and half-ass the work which leads to home owners wishing to diy. No one trusts you guys and you have no one to thank but yourself and your builder buddies.
@@xavytex If a customer wanting the best price is a red flag for you, you are not a good contractor. Imagine thinking people should just pay whatever they are told without doing their own due diligence to make sure they are not being screwed. Sounds like you only want to deal with suckers.
Last year I dropped a screwdriver through the toilet flange on the 2nd floor into the drainage pipe. called a plumbing contractor to put a snake with a camera through there to find the screwdriver to fish it out they did not have a camera he suggested tearing apart my downstairs living room ceiling and walls to find all the pipes to start busting them open I told them just put the flange on and that's it and he charged me he told me he said $150 to put a flange on he put the flange on and then wrote the bill for 400 I never paid him. Called another company later that day they came out with a camera and a snake they found the screwdriver in the pipe all the way down in the basement unscrewed the cap and took it right out took 15 minutes no damage cost me 40 bucks plus a $20 tip so is 60 total.
Well this is timely video. Just today I had to report my electrian to the Police, Attorney General, the FTC, BBB, the state and the county department of construction, oh and my bank to see if I can get my money back. Been a living nightmare and I’m the one left feeling embarrassed because I have to find another electrician to fix the mess. I feel contractors right now think they can treat us any old way, do shoddy work and get away with it. The reputation of contractors is going downhill….. it’s hard to trust them.
@@leec7463 don’t come for me unless I send for you. Move along.
Know who you are working with and educate yourself. I asked 3 roofing companies to give me an assessment and quote for repairs on a home I purchased. I know a few things needed done. 1 company quoted me a complete new roof $16,000 with little explanation other than square footage of the roof. Company 2 no showed for an appointment and reschedule with me an hour after they were supposed to be there. I gave them a second shot and they quoted about 2-3k. The last company to come out did a great walk through with me told me exactly what needed done and that the roof was actually in great shape. Then they walked me through repairs they quoted for $500 or I could do it myself with a trip to Home Depot and about $120. Even offered to have me call about specific questions if I do the work. 3 companies 3 majorly different answers. To be upfront I do a lot of DYI and I had an idea of what needed done. Company 3 was the most honest and clear. I would call them back any day.
I got screwed over by a contractor who rebuilt my porch deck one time. He asked for the last payment before he was done because my bank wasn't local and he said it took time for my check to clear. Of course he never came back and finished after that and left a pile of debris for me to clear up to boot. I investigated suing him and as it turned out EVERYTHING was in his ex-wife's name, the business, the vehicles, the equipment. He still lived with her but they got a divorce when his customers and creditors started calling as a way to safeguard their assets. THAT is the main reason I invested in tools and learned to do everything else myself.
You can sue the business. Regardless if it's his wife's or not. If nobody bothers suing bad contractors, they have no reason to stop.
Yeah I've been experiencing a lot of that, on a more minor scale. "I'll come back and clean all this up" "I'll fix this small mistake" etc. NOPE. They never do.
@@xavytex I think his contract with me was under his own name, not the business. He was a scum who knew how to play the system.
@@iridescentsea3730 I've learned to NEVER pay in full till I'm 100% satisfied and Then a wait another week and pay.
@@jeffmpvd7689 this why contractors do the things they do
Another point to consider is if the builder is dismissive of the client if she's a woman. My builder knows I do the design decision, and has never once asked "when does your husband get home" - it makes a HUGE difference. I also try to be a good client with clear directions and quick payment. FInding a good builder to use on projects over the years is one of the ways I have lucked out with updating our house!
We dropped a family physician when my kids were young after he talked to my (then) wife in a condescending tone. Good point!
It's also true that if you are a woman, you will not be working for contractors gaining experience. Everything will be your fault and you'll be given busy work that does not train or give experience until you quit. Why I'm self-employed.
That is so sad and frustrating. Most women have attention to detail.
@@off-labelbotanist5355
I don’t even own a home yet and I am already so weary of any contractor
This is valuable info - maybe more valuable than the DIY how-to videos. I was a Super for a couple of years at a GC - that stuff about the constant calls of guys trying to kick the can down the road is accurate. Crazy frustrating. Also true that the number of good contractors and help is dwindling and the guys that are out there are being pushed to their limit. And when you reach a certain age, it's obvious how much this kind of work destroys the body. If you're gonna be your own GC, there's a special blend of empathy, assertiveness and spot-on communication. I was not good at it and got out - too much empathy. Hiring people as a home-owner, there's a tendency to be suspicious and untrusting and that destroys rapport fast. Ironing out a bullet proof contract with a detailed scope of work and payment terms will save communication breakdowns later. Build to plan and spec. That thing is gospel. Also gotta be crystal clear that their work is going to be reviewed every step of the way and if it's wrong they're going to be asked to do it again. They should be comfortable with being photographed for the Daily Log. Someone has to document the day to day. Great job Jeff.
I wish I watched this a year ago before my fire restore. Would've saved me tens of thousands of dollars! This is all great advice, I hope everyone takes it.
Glad it helped!
The easiest way to not get screwed by a contractor is to not use a contractor.
I can't even get a contractor to bid, so I guess you're right. Now I just need to learn how to do everything myself.
This is such a great video. I'm a former realtor (Sutton Group, Royal LePage) and certified Home Inspector (Humber College). Jeff brings together so much knowledge from all these different worlds in one digestible instruction. There are pieces of knowledge here that I knew, such as the construction lien process we studied at OREA, but Jeff really brings home the practical, real-world side of how you have to approach such issues. I'm presently a consultant for the province of Ontario... I wish we would publish a 'checklist' of things you 'need to do'... but I guess we have Jeff for that!
Cheers Allen, some things we learn the hard way!
Great video! What does a homeowner do if a project is "finished," the contractor/subcontractor have all been paid, but then you keep finding elements of poor workmanship/deliberate vandalism/damage, etc."
As a trade sub contractor we have the 3 GC's we work for AND NO ONE ELSE. We've been burned too many times, trying to get the last 10-20% that's owed on our part. When talking with the homeowners, yup they paid the GC but he didn't pay. So, we only work with premium GC that we know and have a track record. If we change out a furnace or boiler for a homeowner, directly minimum 50% deposit. It's a one or 2 day job. If you can't pay 50% you can't afford the work. Do, I walk away from work? Yes all the time, but my business is healthy, profitable and my WCB and insurance are paid.., and so are my employees. AND we do quality work that I'm proud to show anyone.
No one should be paying you 50% for work you didnt yet do. Get over yourself.
In CA more than 10% down is illegal, max $1,000. On an $8000 window replacement my contractor required $5,000 down then wouldn't deliver and install the windows unless I paid the balance of $3,000.
Wouldn't even show a photo of the windows they had ready. I tried to cancel but they told me the 5,000 would be forfeited as a penalty but wasn't in the invoice agreement.
Then the windows were not the style I ordered, much smaller than the wall frame so had large gaps covered with vinyl strips, and windows were 2 different brands. I had single horizontal sliders before. They changed them out for 2 single hungs mulled together. I think they used what was laying around in their warehouse.
Unfortunately I had govt training I couldn't get out of and were installed while I was away. My elderly mother voiced that they weren't what I ordered but the subcontractor convinced her I changed the order. A huge disappointment. I feel taken advantage of.
I contacted the CA Contractor Licensing board and learned it's illegal for a contractor to demand 100% up front. It was a one in a life time project for me as this is my forever home.
I had a big expansive view before, lots of glass with only 1/2" frame widths. Now it's 4 square windows 4" frame widths and 8" mull. My view is now obstructed and I lost alot of glass. I wrote a 1 star review showing before and after photos and the contractor then threatened me with libel. The whole ordeal put me into a depression.
Excellent video
Just discovered your channel a month ago, I have to admit that I have watched at least one video every day since....It's become part of my nightly wear down mind routine..I'm in Michigan and you are so dead on about the labor shortage for the "handyman"!!
We are first time buyers and Jeff and his Jeffometer will echo hallways as we stand there with our recommended 5 tools ready to do jobs with confidence
Always enjoy your presentations - always interesting and informative even if I personally can't do or don't need (plus you make all things 'fun'). But this one is excellent 'food for thought', not only for those planning a reno but for anyone to keep in mind if ever suddenly faced with 'needing' a reno (as another commenter here experienced after a fire.) We're in such crazy times these days, it's hard enough just to be a consumer of goods . . . services is a whole other topic! Thank you!
Wow fantastic video - they don’t teach this in school. So many of us hope and pray these contractors are acting in good faith. Your steps are excellent parameters. I wonder how many contractors would walk away from these requests
another thing to check is their credit score. very normal in the Usa to need a good one to even get a license
Not the good ones....
And that's the point.
If a client asked to speak to a current client: awesome!
Want to see my contract? Sure
Want to see my payment schedule? No prob
Want a detailed list of specifications and materials? Already included
Want an up to date copy of my schedule? I'll send you a login for access.
This stuff isn't hard for a proper contractor to do. But for an edge of his seat, barely getting by, not charging enough, contractor? It's going to take him too long to get organized enough to prove it to you and he will just disappear. Which is good
Always get waivers of liens. A waiver of lien states that the contractor or supplier waves it right to lien your property. Not just the contractor or sub contractor but the suppliers as well. You could have a roofing contractor who bought the materials on credit and if the roofer fails to pay the supplier, the roofing supplier will come and slap a lien on your house, they don't care if you paid the roofer. This is especially true for materials delivered to the job site such as concrete, roofing and lumber, the big stuff. All subcontracted trades need to provide a waiver of lien at completion of the job for both labor and materials.
Let's say you paid out of pocket for all the costs of your project and later decided to refinance your home or sell it. A mortgage company will be looking for all those waivers to ensure a ticked off supplier or contractor doesn't lien your home. Title insurance companies are good at managing pay outs on construction projects and can insure your home will be free of liens by paying the contractors.
Excellent non nonsense experience recommendations.
Based on my experience, I am adding one recommendation if you planning to do $30,000 plus renovation work!
Hire some one to make a sketches describing the work to be done, including the specifications for the the important items: bathtub, shower, sink, cabinets, faucets ...
This documents will then be used to request bids. Ask bids with detailed costs and detailed schedule.
I would be better if the contract is written by your layers.
Another thing worth mentioning is that customers can utilize payment through a credit card as insurance when a project isn't completed. Paying by credit allows a customer to chargeback their credit card for not receiving what they paid for. This will put the payment into an investigation whether services or product was rendered.
As long as you're ok with the 4% surcharge. Diff states have diff legislation but where I live: I can directly pass along the merchant service fees to clients.
I'd rather do that than charge all clients 4%
Absolutely true to make sure that the people you're working and a lot of money is being exchanged, it's good to use these as a guideline. Some exceptions do apply like relying on word-of-mouth and personal recommendations that people will do everything they can to live up to their personal referrals.
My suggestion is to judge and gauge quality of their character before their quality of work.
10:00 "fewer and fewer contractors that fit the bill" - that's RIGHT!
I basically become my own contractor. I go to my local not big box store day I have this job in doing who do you have that comes in here who does that. Then I interview them and pick who I want. Then when jobs are done I call them back for more jobs and I'm flexible with when my project needs to be done. Meaning I do small projects that the sub contractor can squeeze in between his bigger jobs or if there stalled out waiting for inspections for other jobs. It's worked out great for us and then they get referred from us to family and friends for other jobs. Everyone is happy in the end.
I read like that you made this video because most people don't think about all these things when looking to hire a contractor. Been watching your DIY videos for years keep up the great work!
Professional contractors very clearly layout a payment schedule in their contracts. If a contract does not include a payment schedule for your project. You are not dealing with a professional, if there isn't a payment schedule in the contract.
I would love to a see a video on how to not get screwed by homeowners.
Lol I get these videos get views since there are more home owners than contractors, but when home owners get screwed by contractors 95 percent t of the time they just went with some shady dude because he was cheap.
I’m going to start making videos about this. A lot of honest ppl get screwed just trying to do good work. Usually the shady guys get ahead
I always charge 60% deposit. Covers the goods. No less than this. The job is not that important to lose thousands of dollars if the home owner changes their mind
@@8873kym If there’s a slightest thing that seams off (rudeness, throwing in my face they are shopping around, or they have lots of family who need my services- and few more reasons) I always throw in an A- hole fee. If you know there’s no way you want to work for them (no amount of money is worth it) then just say your over booked. You get the price up too high with an A-Hole you may never make them happy because the expectations are set too high by the cost.
@@bobwhelk2117 A hole fee 😆 I like it.
With carpentry renovation skills I have decided to BE the Contractor MYSELF.....I look for the sub contractors, drafts person, structural engineer-if needed. I get the permit, get electrical people, ICF subcontractor, framing subcontractor. I buy and order the windows.....I am so fed up here on Prince Edward Island there are too many risks looking for a competent contractor......who inflames the prices of what you want to purchase.....so exhausting interviewing, taking visits to contractor worksites....so disappointment....Good lucky everyone....and thanks Jeff for this important advice. 🙏 🇨🇦
One red flag you missed here: the contractor demands a significant amount of the payments be cash or will only accept cash as a payment.
This is important because I don't think many homeowners understand how little protection cash gives them when dealing with a shady contractor. As you said, a good contractor has their house in order and doesn't need the homeowner to finance all of their operation. They can handle waiting for the banks to process a check or credit card. A bad, albeit not shady, contractor that cannot wait for banks to process anything but cash could basically run out at any point then demand more. A shady contractor will take your money and run.
As I like to point out too it's not like the contractor doesn't know where their clients live.
As a contractor, a deposit pays for the materials and there are progressive payments as the project progresses as specified in the contract. I do not finance projects.
Exactly! Me too.
Hello, Jeff. Lots of good stuff here. The only thing that you might add is that certain things can be different from region to region. I worked in multiple U.S. states before moving to Texas and the construction culture here is unlike anywhere else. It really confused me my first couple of years here, and now I see that same thing happening to people that move here from other places. I DO plan on putting together a video of my own with those specific differences to help people out.
Best channel. Thanks for all the help
Happy to help! Cheers!
I sure wish I had you about 5 years ago! We embarked on our home, as our own contractors and had thought we would have the work and guidance of a ‘friend’. He turned out to be the spawn of Satan, and a full grade alcoholic (contractor bags full of cans) needless to say, he did not have his house in order. He was an underdog for a reason! Very traumatic and expensive lesson! I’m just emotionally over it all.
Thank you! Excellent video. I'm in the process of hiring a plumber to repair some water damage, etc. Small job. I made up a list of how I see it happening (remove subfloor, vanity, replace subfloor, replace vanity, a few specs re the flooring I purchased (and will install myself) etc. But I forgot about the payment part. The 10% up front is a good idea and also I'll pay for materials delivered when he gives me the invoice. Hoping it's just a few days, so I'll pay the rest at the end of the job.
I usually leave only critical negative reviews on channels on TH-cam my negative review for you is why aren't there more people like you out there especially in the states. In Canada there are but in the US it's every man for himself it sucks. good ol greed and dishonesty of capitalism.
Well I'm a lawyer. My fiance is a lawyer. Her parents are both lawyers. Even then we ended with a shitty contract because it was such a hassle to drill down a contract with a contractor or find some contractor who will. There is a pro to this relationship as changes are alot more flexible, and we get something done without pay etc. That being said it was also big deal of stress with them taking their time with the renovation.
Impossible to avoid a contractor screwing you. Its their main job.
Can you do a video to warn people about "piggyback" retrofit windows? In Vancouver, they're a common way of installing "new windows" in homes, but the glass area is always smaller and the massive frames have to be hidden with tons of trim on the inside. I don't know how much money it saves for the installer, and whether the homeowner sees any savings as a result, but I only found out that it was done this way recently, thanks to a Reddit post.
I am so glad I found your video. Thank you.
“ past success is not a predictor of future success”
Of course it is. It isn’t a *guarantee*, but it is absolutely a predictor.
Herbert Stewart of R&S Facility Services LLC is one of the worst contractors in south florida. He had 3 jobs around my house. Messed up all of them and never finished. He's a sheister!
Jeff is the Best!!! I wish you were in US
Had a contractor I've used for 5 years on small to medium jobs with good price, slightly below average work. Quotes me 2 weeks and great price for drywall, floor and ikea kitchen install on open floor 750sqr foot. half the drywall already done. I expected it to be double the time. 10 weeks later and i find out he's only working it some weekends because he took other jobs. now I'm 3 months out rent and at risk of losing insurance.
LOL great price dude just say cheap.
We're living in corrupt world 🌍
“What if this guy turns out to be the Spaun of satan?” 😂😂😂😂 that was hilarious.
First time homeowner, one of the recommendations you missed (though part of the "upfront" vetting and redlining) is to get a direct answer from a GC about their relationships to subs and products. Have them all selected/acknowledged/agreed-upon before. Some are proxy-salespeople in disguise --- actually scratch that if they've been around long enough they ALL are to some degree (even Jeff! =P).
In my new & limited experience if you haven't picked out a specific something (for example: countertops) they will walk away if you don't comply with their non-declared partnership. If you already put down a deposit, you'll likely never see it again.
Hey Jeff , love being a dyi member
Very Noice!
Great video that will help many avoid problems with contractors today who are many times so crooked.
Thank you for all the help. Invaluable guidance.
Too late😢😭
There is zero chance i would allow a prospective client to come to another clients house. It's not about the work, it's someone else's house, I'm not allowed to invite strangers.
Coming from a licensed remodeling contractor. Please do more research. Do not blindly trust the advice in this video without communicating with several qualified professionals. There are many RedFlags in this video, were untrue or misleading advice was given. Knowing the qualifications of someone who you take advice from is very important.
Having my wife act as our GC when she's actually a project manager for a huge construction company who manages projects worth hundreds of millions is hilarious. Let's all be honest sexism is alive and well in the world of contracting and I've seen many a sub trade have no idea who they were dealing with when they tried to "little lady" her. Seeing for example, a painter (who did a terrible job) squirm when they get a professional deficiency report prior to payment as per the contract is the only silver lining to bad work.
There’s a lot of seedy contractors out there
Great video. I was a contractor for 14 years, I spect builder.idid'nt have to deal with to many people.just subs. Even with my experience I would not GC my own house. The relationships are just not there.
This is great and timely for me. I have a price of $400,000 from a contractor to add a 24 x 24 garage, an 11 x 15 office, extend the kitchen out 14 ft, remodel an 14 x 12 existing kitchen. The current sq ft of the whole house is 2,100. Way over priced from my viewpoint. Plus they want $75K down upfront. They have all subs. Just to manage the project they want $90K. I can’t be my own GC because of NC law. What are your thoughts?
@Invest157 testing to see if this gets to you
Get another quote. If its apples to apples and similar in price: you just can't afford it. If its apples to apples and different price: what extra value is the more expensive guy giving? Better quality? Speed? Organization? Materials? Or is the more expensive guys business just more overhead or profit hungry? Doesn't mean his price is bad, but maybe you'll get better value from a company without a showroom, or 10 project managers, radio ads etc.
Just cause you think something costs too much doesn't mean it is: the only way you'll know is by getting another quote.
If 90k is the profit, overhead, and supervision of the project (the total markup on the job) then in my neck of the woods, it's probably low. Remodelers are usually 8-15% profit, 25-35% overhead (including supervision). But Im in Canada. Some States have lower labour rates.
@@mudmanKC I responded to your message before seeing this one. I did get a second quote and they $60K more. It an attractive area and people moving in are willing to pay. Thanks for info. You are definitely up on remodeling and much much more.
Gene.
Get multiple quotes, but also why in the world would you agree to all of this upfront? Piecemeal it out and then you can base future work upon the quality of what was already delivered.
Many ,many,many people broke with no actual money pay with plastic or credit as we call it,
Wow quality Content 🎉 as always😊
Thank you 🙌
@@HomeRenoVisionDIY welcome Sir
@@HomeRenoVisionDIY sir I am following you for the last 2 years and i like your all videos
Thank you! Excellent video. Always enjoy and find informative as well as entertaining. Im in the process of hiring a contractor for residing the whole house. (old LP Siding) Have not been able to get the contractors to give out customers phone numbers and (sometimes) addresses, clamming "personal information". (The job is going to be around $30,000.) I don't know how to get around that. Tips?
I live in Oregon. I am female . But have been able to check if they are licensed and bonded.
3:37 wowsers..... facts time!
**Not all contractors use debt to run a business** I run a debt free business. lol "Having your house in order" can mean many things. to me it means dont borrow money whenever possible..
What a helpful video! Thank you!
I think it’s smart to pay with a credit card. If something goes terribly wrong and the contractor does not want to fix the problem and keep my money I contact my credit card company and ask for a charge back. That will probably get there attention. Protect yourself.
Thats fine but our house build was over 150K. Im not a millionaire to have this kind of credit card.
You can not in the USA get a framing inspection or "Building Inspection" without first completing the mechanical inspections... Maybe in Canada they do things different... Again please please get advice from several professionals. Jeff may or may not understand the rules and regulations for your project.
😊Great video, thank you for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
I decided to construct my own basement to avoid contracting disasters.
Boy Jeff, I was making all sorts of sounds that I can't even spell to type them in here! Mostly it all sounds like some version of a nightmare, hence diy if you can! So much good info and don't say I didn't warn you advice! Why gatorade?
Great information. I learned alot of stuff I didn't know.
What if you find things after the job is "done," that are shoddy workmanship or deliberate sabotage/vandalism?
Those are two different things in my opinion deliberat sabotage is intentional, shoddy workmanship is lazy and the work shoddy these days seems like a word that was once used to be hurtful against a people.
Thanks for that Jeff!
They have been doing it for years in my opinion. If i charge 3.25 a square foot they will turn around and charge customer 5.50 a square foot. Just cuz
Does the 10% down on contract acceptance apply to a patio paver installation with a short retaining wall? We are seeing 50% on signing requirements
Thanks DIY Dad.
Sounds like this is all good advice, thanks
hier in the Netherland standart is 40% upfront pay.
Love the thumbnail 😂
very helpful. can you please do a vid like this on how to work with architects?
Engage a contractor during the design period. Seperate architect, seperate contractor but have the contractor provide budget pricing on the design as it's developed. Expect to pay for this service but it helps keep the architects design from being a budget breaker.
Architects are notorious for designing wonderful spaces that you can't afford then blaming the contractor for being too expensive.
Engage and pay them both. Speeds up the preconstruction planning process too since the contractors bid is already developed over the month(s) of planning.
For deposits, what I require of customers scales based on total cost of a project. Most times I space things out in milestones based on stages of project completion. This makes the customer comfortable with releasing funds based on progression. However my scale method helps to weed out customers who may not be in a position to hire a project let alone fulfill the total cost. If I'm doing a project below $5000 and a $2500 project initiation fee is too much for them, it's a glaring red flag that the customer is not prepared to afford the project or plans on not paying. Rarely do I front the cost of beginning a project unless there are special circumstances. Doing it this way, I filter myself out of clientele that are tire kickers, scammers or cheapskates that try to get work done for nothing, it saves me time and headache. Now when it comes to projects beyond 25,000 or into the 1,000,000+ range like a Tarion home build, everything is on paper, witnessed by my lawyer, completely transparent with the client and is entirely scaled by milestones. Project initiation is done when proof of project financing is provided and no deposit is needed because of the contractual commitment.
Anyone can come in, take a 50% payment, and leave never to be seen again. Of course your clients dont want to pay you this upfront. We cant afford to have 4 of you come in and waste 200% of our budget with nothing to show for it. Do the work = get paid. Stop asking for money you dont deserve and didnt work for.
@@nadias6435 These are the people I avoid. Small projects are almost not worth my time. If $2500 is too much money for someone, clearly I should avoid them. On my end I have everything above board, everything is documented and invoiced. The client has all the power to get their funds back if I skipped town.
i mean im from slovenia so i dk if its any different but i renovated my bathroom and i paid 70%deposit
We got 4 quotes from 4 different contractors. One that we did not accept wants $250 "for his time". Should we pay for the unaccepted quote?
Today's sponsor of this video is gatorade! jk. Awesome video, very informative and easy to listen to.
So helpful..thanks!
Which are the worst trades/contractors? From my experience it’s roofers. Most don’t do anything or do as little work as possible. If there are issues they never return. I’m now thinking I have to endanger myself to do the job myself. They play on people’s fears.
That’s the one job I 100% won’t do myself. The risk is too high.
Does the state you live in determine what inspections are needed, i.e. electrical, plumbing, etc. When you do a remodel. If so, where do I go for this information?
Hey Jeff, as a contractor who receives 10% up front as a deposit as you mentioned , how did you handle a client cancelling after giving you the 10% deposit? Was it refundable or non refundable or a only portion of it?
Words of wisdom!
I hope that you can assist me. I need to buy software that compares bids side by side and identifies pricing and scope discrepancies, etc.. All suggestions would be appreciated. I only work with contractors who break down their bids,.
It is overwhelming to analyze bids from 4-5 contractors with 200+ line items in each bid. I am not a construction professional; although, I have hired several contractors in the past few years for both small projects and major residential renovations. So, I am not a newbie and I am very capable using software with a steep learning curve. Thank you.
Easiest way.... DIY !
I'm sooo afraid I'm gonna screw up my house trying to DIY 😬
@@OmANnIe you can do it! What are you trying to get done? I bet there's lots of information for it, even videos.
DIY is a great option, but for a lot of people a contractor is actually the better deal. If you don't own the tools, have the skill set, and make a low enough amount that it's worth your time then fiscally you should just hire the contractor. Now if you enjoy it, that is a different thing.
I always got 1/2dn 1/2 when I start and 1/2 when I finish
That's 1/2 too many.
@@denisegaylord382 it's a joke
Roof shingles need to be replaced due to hail damage. Insurance paying 1/4 cost. Do I show insurance adjusters price to roofing comp. for estimate?
I had my first contractor come the other day to do my small 5x7 bathroom he tells me 10k but I need to buy the tile the vanity the medicine cabinet.. toilet buy and get shower doors fitted and the shower head and accessories for shower I laughed in his face on to the next one keep in mind no plumbing or anything it electrical is being moved as well
That’s not expensive.
Long time viewer. Your not a contractor any longer?
What about if contractor wants you to purchase all material? Good or bad ??
I honestly learned something already. Asking only 10 %
A while ago in 1 of your videos you talked about starting a wholesale club. Whatever happened to that? Is it up and running? How do I get involved?
Why does my contractor only ask me for money or send me the bill 3-4 months after they finished the job??
Maybe he’s busy/not well organized/forgot. Maybe he want the bill to become payable the next fiscal year to save taxes ?
Yea probably.. I guess it’s ok lol
Great stuff
We want to fully gut/remodel our home plus add a garage amd master suite. In order to do this we will need a loan. Unfortunately our bank is saying we have to get a quote from a contractor for the total cost, even though we plan to do as much as possible on our own. In my area(and I'm assuming many others)Contractors are extremely hard to get them to even respond, and the couple we have got to actually come to give a quote have taken literal months and we still have no quotes. Are there other options to go about this?
Hi, if you ask to pay for the consultation/quote, you’ll find someone. We’re overloaded with people asking for “free” quotes. We’re overloaded with people asking for 5-10 free quotes and never end-up buying from anyone.
If that’s not your case, you need to communicate accordingly so you don’t get assimilated with other tire kickers. Cheers !
Pay to fully plan the job. 4-7% of the job cost. Once the job is planned you'll have everything you need to hire it out, professionally planned and ready to go. The contractor will be disappointed but you paid him for his time- no hard feelings.
@@mudmanKC She wants to DIY as much as possible (huge red flag she doesn't want to pay a fair price). Do you really think she's gonna pay someone 4-7% to do a pre-construction study ? People are so used to "free" quotes that they don't want to pay a dime for what they call "nothing". Get qualified advice based on years of experience for an hour is "nothing". I mean, we all go to the doctor to get that same "nothing", it lasts 5-15 minutes and we pay for it.
Generally, people don't value a consultation from a contractor the same way they value a consultation from a doctor. Even worse, they get the "free" quote/consultation and go get a cheaper price with all that info.
Bottom line, if there is any red flag the prospect is cheap, difficult, shopping for the best price, most of us don't even bother giving a quote. "I need the permission of the bank to hire you", "We'll self-perform as much as possible", "We pay for the material, we just want labour and the list of what we have to buy. Can you get us a better price for material ? And can you go pick-it up ? For free, because 20% mark-up just to drive to the store is too much. It's part of the job after all, isn't it ?". "Is there any benefit to paying cash ?".
That type of stuff. All red flags.
GCs like you are the red flag actually. You overquote for everything and half-ass the work which leads to home owners wishing to diy. No one trusts you guys and you have no one to thank but yourself and your builder buddies.
@@xavytex If a customer wanting the best price is a red flag for you, you are not a good contractor. Imagine thinking people should just pay whatever they are told without doing their own due diligence to make sure they are not being screwed. Sounds like you only want to deal with suckers.
nice video.
do you have a sample of the contract you use?
Here's the truth, Treaties (contract) were always meant to be broken. Craftsman give off certain Vibes only choose Craftsman to do your work.
Great!!