3 Ways To Protect Yourself When Choosing A Contractor

You had some work done on your property. Something was damaged, or is not working as it should. Worse even, you paid a deposit and now the Contractor is MIA...

Unfortunately, we hear about these things happening all the time; so what can you do to best protect yourself when hiring a contractor? We'll tell you things to look out for and ways to verify a Contractor in 3 easy steps.

But first, why is it so important to find a licensed and insured contractor?

It is always important to work with a Licensed and Insured Contractor, or you could be left with sub-par work, costly repairs, and a lengthy civil battle as your only recourse. Don't fall victim to a fly-by-night Contractor!

How can you protect yourself? 

1. Watch for red flags:

• Does the contractor have an established business page or web presence?
  
  If a contractor is not established online, or has not taken the time to create a professional page with information, this may warrant additional research including asking for references to ensure they are qualified to provide the work they advertise.
  
  
• If you've received multiple bids, is one Contractor's price much less than their competitors?
  
  This could mean they are not licensed or insured and may not even be a legitimate business. With little to no overheard, a phoney "Contractor" can afford to charge less because they are not paying to carry the proper credentials/insurance.  This person is a liability and should not be allowed to work on your property.

2. Is their business listed on the Colorado Secretary of State Business Database?

• Find out easily if the Contractor's business is "active" as recognized by the state by searching the database HERE.  (Note: a company not listed could be operating under a DBA or other entity, so be sure to verify the actual business name with the Contractor. Don't be afraid to ask for proof via a 'Certificate of Good Standing' with the state. This is easily obtainable with a few clicks so any valid Contractor should be able to provide a copy at no cost upon request)

3. Search your local county Building Department website or call to ensure a Contractor is licensed to provide services in your area.​

       Each County has a Contractor List that is updated often to maintain the latest license information. A skilled trade contractor not listed with the county has not been approved to provide that service in the area. Skilled trades include Limited Excavation, Full Excavation/Grading (able to work in the Right-Of-Way), Concrete, Septic, Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC and the like. If not listed with the county, this is a big red flag as some of the trade skills require testing and references, as well as proof of insurance before being approved to work in the county.

• Search Teller County HERE
• Check with Park County by calling (719) 836-2771 to verify
  
  Note: Park County Electrical & Plumbing Licenses are handled at the state level. Verify a license through the state HERE.

As the homeowner, it is important to protect yourself and your property when selecting a qualified Contractor. The only way to FULLY vet a contractor is to follow ALL THREE of these steps and verify insurance. The county may show a contractor as active, but that contractor may not be in good standing with the state, or visa versa.

Do your research ahead of time to save in the long run and set yourself up for success on your next project!

By Casey Loftus
Peak DirtWorks, LLC

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Peak DirtWorks is a fully licensed, insured, and bonded Colorado Limited Liability Company. View our credentials below:
-Secretary Of State
-Teller County Licensing 
-Park County Licensing (Call 719-836-2771)
-Proof of Insurance available upon request. 

​Request more info at [email protected] or call (719) 445-7325