Top 10 Reasons not to Hire a Particular Contractor
Right now I'm completing this course called "Executive Certificate in Home Modification" from the University of Southern California. This week we're talking about contractors and I thought I'd write a quick blog.
In the world of Home Modifications, it is essential that we pick the right contractors for the work that we have completed. This is especially true when we are working with people with disabilities. My course states, "Home modification is not a dark secret, nor is it rocket science. At its core, it is simply common sense applied to specific issues regarding a person's ability to live in his or her own home. It requires sensitivity to client needs and a willingness to sift through the issues to find solutions that both parties feel will be workable."
Take ramps for example, they really do need to be designed properly.
Take a look at this poorly designed ramp - I'm sure the client didn't want a roller coaster ride or a ramp with the potential of falling off one side. I guess the contractor really didn't know what he was doing.
Although this is a cartoon, I have seen ramps designed that require 2 or 3 assistants to get the cleint up the ramp. All this ramp is good for is downhill sliding for the kids!
So to finish this little blog, I'll leave you with the 10 Top Reasons not to Hire a Particular Contractor!
10. He/she says, "I can start tomorrow."
9. He/she claims that it is not possible for him to show you any of his/her work because all of his/her clients have recently moved to Mexico.
8. He/she thinks that "OT" means old-fashioned tub. (By the way it means Occupational Therapist)
7. He/she was the previous CEO of GM or Hewlett Packard.
6. He/she asks to borrow your tape measure.
5. His/her scrapbook of previous work is identical to photographs in the picture frames at Target.
4. He/she wants a deposit before he/she will give you any references or information.
3. His/her only local reference has the same last name as he/she does.
2. He/she claims to be a certified accessibility contractor that knows "handicapped."
1. He/she tells you everything will meet building code.
My final comment - CONTRACTor starts with CONTRACT! Make sure you get one!
Posted by Paulette Upshall
on March 23, 2011