I recently hired a guy to fix my roof. He's coming next week. He's asking just under $500 for the work. If he asks for money up front, should I give it to him? Like, if he says he needs it to buy the supplies. Five years ago, I was ripped off by a guy who did this, and I pursued him for 3 years till he was arrested and charged. I don't want to make the same mistake. I can't find any info from the BBB on the guy I am currently hiring. But then, I found nothing on the guy who stole from me, either. Still, I don't want to hand a complete stranger a large amount of money!
Anyone ever been in this situation and have advice?
2007-04-16 07:38:43 · 6 answers · asked by jicour 3 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
I always told my customers where I will be buying the materials, and then have them set up the account there. It gave the customer a chance to get another opinion of my dealings.
My other option was to charge the materials, then present the receipt upon arrival at the job site. If the roofer does not have someplace that can vouch for him, do not deal with him!
$500 is a cheap price for a roof repair. Call and get references before he shows up.
2007-04-16 07:51:40 · answer #1 · answered by edjumacation 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
How did you find him? Any recommendations?
I would suggest NOT paying the full amount until the work is completed. Find out how much the supply would cost and try to negotiate. The most I would agree to pay up front would be 50% and the remainder payable upon completion of the work.
2007-04-16 14:48:19 · answer #2 · answered by tkquestion 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
This is standard. Most contracters want 1/3 down, to buy materials. If you don't trust this guy, then, don't use him. Call and tell him to forget it.
How did you find him. Is he in the phone book,? Has he done work for the neighbors?
He may be 100% trustworthy. You owe it to yourself to find out.
2007-04-16 14:51:12 · answer #3 · answered by TedEx 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Never pay more than 25% up front, and require a contract for what will be done, and how much. Both you AND he should sign the contract. If he refuses, smile and say goodbye.
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2007-04-16 14:45:04 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 4⤊ 0⤋
Dear JICOUR:
At minimum you should have him provide some references of locations of work he completed with the passed year or so. You should then call the owners of these homes/businesses and see how satisified (dissatisfied) they are with the quality of work among other things.
Just food for thought and best of luck!
2007-04-16 15:00:35 · answer #5 · answered by Gerry 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Peronally, I wouldn't give him anything until he starts the job. If he says he can't start unitl he gets paid find a new contractor.
2007-04-16 15:12:05 · answer #6 · answered by evil_paul 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋