What to Look for When Selecting a Contractor

The following are strong signs that you are dealing with an honest and reliable contractor:

1.    High level of professionalism. Courtesy, respect, punctuality and the ability to communicate are some of the most important attributes a contractor can have next to their basic competency.

2.    They are licensed by the state and have never had a complaint filed or had disciplinary action taken against them. You can ask for their license number and you can also look them up by name on DenverGov.org's Contractor License Search.

3.    They carry adequate Workman's Compensation and General Liability insurance. You can ask to see their insurance certificates.

4.    They've been in business seven or more years under the same name.

5.    A well established contractor will have a permanent, physical business office and address, a tax identification number and business license, and will have these readily available.

6.    They can offer at least five positive references from previous customers.

7.    They specialize in the work you are wanting performed and can provide referential material of such experience.

8.    They offer detailed descriptions of the Scope of Work to be performed.

9.    They will warranty their work.

10.  They don't ask for more than 25-33% of the cost up front.

11.  They don't require final payment until the work is complete.

12.  They are in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. You can check this at the Denver BBB's Business Review. Here you can see AAA Home Improvement's BBB Review.

13.  They're affiliated with a local, state, regional or national industry organization, such as NARI. Involvement in a professional organization tends to keep a contractor better informed about the latest developments and issues in the industry.