7-lies-contractors-may-tell-youKitchen remodeling projects are difficult enough without worrying about whether or not you can trust what your contractor says. Unfortunately, in the attempt to get the job, some contractors have a tendency to stretch the truth.

Here are seven simple statements that you may not be able to take at face value:

1.) We’re Fully Insured

Contractors are mandated to acquire two types of insurance:
  1. Worker’s Compensation Insurance
  2. Contractor’s Liability Insurance
Worker’s compensation is the more expensive of the two and some contractors try to circumvent it by claiming that they technically don’t have any employees. Unless your contractor is truly a one-man show, not having worker’s compensation coverage increases your liability.

2.) You Don’t Need to Get Another Estimate

There’s no harm in looking. The general rule when it comes to projects is to get three estimates. By getting multiple estimates you gain a better understanding of how different contractors operate. You will also be able to more accurately compare how costs and materials vary. Don’t limit yourself to the first contractor you meet. Know your options, information is your friend.

3.) You Can Trust Me

Maybe you can, maybe you can’t. The important thing to remember is that you should trust yourself. Don’t hire a contractor if you aren’t completely comfortable with them. Don’t try to rationalize a decision because they’re the cheapest or they seem great on paper. Stick to your guns and don’t go with a contractor unless you trust them.

4.) I Don’t Mark Up Labor

Many contractors, especially bigger ones will subcontract work. This means that for them to make money, they pass the additional cost onto you in the form of markups. Labor, materials, and any other aspect of the job may see a small price bump from your contractor. For this reason many suggest that you try to buy your own materials and do smaller parts of labor to cut down on costs.

5.) I Have Experience with Design

If your project isn’t overly ambitious, then your contractor’s design skills will probably be sufficient. When it comes down to it though, their knowledge of design is probably very limited. If your contractor claims to have an extensive skill-set in design, ask if he has a portfolio and references to verify that claim. If they can’t satisfy your requests, you’re probably better off consulting an architect for your project.

6.) We Don’t Need to Put this in the Contract

During the course of the project you’ll have countless conversations. Ideas will change over the course of time, and your expectation will be that every detail is completed to your satisfaction. The key to a successful project is to prioritize what is most important to you and make sure it gets put into the contract. The easiest way to ensure something will get done is to make sure it’s in the contract.

7.) $$$

Too many things can go wrong during a kitchen remodeling project to assume that the estimate you get at the beginning of the project is the final price you’ll pay. Take this into account and plan for unexpected financial setbacks in your budget.

With these tips you can see through the simple deceptions and make sure the contractor you choose to work with is the best man for the job!