10 Tips for Hiring a Contractor

Information provided by: Arizona Registrar of Contractors www.AZROC.gov
The Registrar of Contractors monitors and investigates unlawful contractor activity. Unlicensed persons without a license exemption prey on Arizona’s population. These individuals come from a variety of locations inside and outside of Arizona. Don’t be fooled by their salesmanship.  Following the simple guideline outlined here may prevent you from becoming the next victim.

ROC Prescott Office
240 South Montezuma Street, Suite 202B
Prescott, AZ  86303-3028
(928) 445-5710  www.AZROC.gov

Following these simple guidelines should help prevent unnecessary stress.

#1 – Only hire licensed contractors – Interview and hire only state licensed contractors.  Check a contractor’s license number online at www.azroc.gov or by calling (602) 542-1626 or toll free (877) 692-9762.  Remember to check the contractor’s license status again on the day you are scheduled to sign the contract.

#2 – Get multiple Bids – Get at least three bids from licensed contractors.  These contractors should be licensed to perform the specific trades related to your project.

#3 – Licensed Sub-contractors – Obtain a list of all sub-contractors that will be used on your project.  Make sure these sub-contractors are properly licensed.

#4 – Everything in Writing – Make sure all agreements are in writing including changes made to the original agreement.

#5 – Get & Verfiy References – Obtain three references of recent jobs from each bidder.  Review their past work in person.

#6 – Detailed Records – Keep a file of all papers relating to the project including a payment receipt file.

#7 – Worker’s Compensation – Confirm that all contractors and sub-contractors used on your project have worker’s compensation insurance for employees.

#8 – Payment Schedule – Add a payment schedule based on work completed to your agreement.  Don’t make payments ahead of schedule or before work is completed according to your agreement.

#9 – Never Pay in Cash – Be cautious if asked to make a large down payment or to pay in full prior to the commencement of the project.  Do not pay the contractor in cash.

#10 – Final Inspection – Don’t make the final payment until you’re satisfied with the work performed.