WBA tips on how to hire a qualified contractor

The Wisconsin Builders Association (WBA) urges citizens being approached by out-of-work contractors to utilize www.wisbuild.org to obtain contact information for over 7,000 members of its professional trade organization.

Statewide members represent all aspects of the home-building industry including builders, remodelers, and associates who have the professional skills, education and credentials that are essential to ensure consumers are hiring a qualified professional for their building or remodeling needs.

“Professional builders and remodelers will present evidence of their credentials without hesitation,” said WBA President Doug Scott, owner of Advantage Homes, Janesville. “Consumers should not hesitate to ask contractors to present their Dwelling Contractor Certification and Dwelling Contractor Qualifier certification cards provided by the Wis. Department of Commerce. We need to work together to ensure that our communities are not victimized by fraudulent ‘fly-by-night’ contractors.”

Scott encourages citizens to “look to the resources of your local builder association for names of qualified contractors that have established roots in your community.”

Be aware of these common tactics that should raise red flags:

• You’re told that on this job, a contract “won’t be necessary.”

• You’re asked to pay for the entire job “up front” – or pay cash to a salesperson instead of a check or money order to a company.

• You are confronted with scare tactics, intimidation or threats. • You’re told you’ve been “chosen” as a demonstration project at a special, low price. • You’re told a “special” low price is good only if you sign a contract today. • The contractor won’t give you reference – or the references can’t be located.

• You can’t verify the contractor’s business address.

WBA suggests keeping the following advice in mind if you need to hire a contractor to perform repairs on any part of your home or business:

• Ask the contractor to present their Dwelling Contractor Certification and Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Certification cards provided by the Wisconsin Department of Commerce. These are required to pull building permits in Wisconsin.

• Research how long the contractor has been in business.

• Contact the Better Business Bureau and see if the business has a record of unresolved complaints.

• Make sure you get a complete, clearly written contract for any work to be done. Do not rely on verbal agreements. All changes to the job should be put in writing before they occur.

• Do not pay any cash up front unless you have signed a valid contract.

For a complete list of WBA members, visit its Web site www.wisbuild.org and under the Membership tab, you will see the directory. To find a local builder association in your area, see under the “About Us” tab a Local Associations finder map.

The Wisconsin Builders Association consists of 25 local associations throughout the state. It is an organization of more than 7,000 members committed to preserving and promoting the American dream of home ownership by working for quality, safe and affordable housing in Wisconsin.