Angie's List: Many Homeowners Fail to Check References of a Contractor

Before a homeowner hires a contractor, asking for a list of references is a step that should not be forgotten. Once the list is provided, there are important questions to ask.

Before you hire a contractor, Angie Hicks, founder of Angie's List says the contractor should provide you with a list of references.

"Checking references can seem like a hassle, but it's an important step in the hiring process," Hicks said.

 

According to Angie's List, only 50% of people do check references.

"You want to make sure that what they're saying is true," Hicks said.

Hicks says when references are provided, then calls need to be made. Past clients of the contractor should be asked things like, did the contractor show up on time? How was the communication throughout the job? Also, did you get the results you expected? Did the job come in close to budget? Finally, would you re-hire the contractor?

Hicks says asking a few simple questions of previous clients, will prevent problems from popping up on the job done at your home.

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