[News & Insights](https://hbrama.com/news-insights)# How to Find an Honest Contractor

November 5, 2023      [For Homeowners](https://hbrama.com/for-homeowners) 

Severe weather may be approaching with the arrival of the winter months. If Mother Nature damages your home, you may need to call a professional for help. Unfortunately, not all professionals are looking out for a home owner’s best interest. After natural or man-made disasters, unscrupulous contractors try to profit from a community’s misfortune.

You may not be able to stop unexpected damage to your home, but a fly-by-night contractor is one disaster you can prevent. There are a few simple steps you can take to ensure you hire a reputable professional. You can follow these guidelines when evaluating any potential contractor, whether for post-disaster repairs or a planned renovation to your home.

Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

**Price and payment**

- Don’t get pressured into signing a contract immediately. You should not be told that you need to sign a contract that day or risk a price increase.
- Paying a deposit of anywhere from 20 percent to 50 percent is typical; however, you should not be asked to pay the full cost in advance before work begins.
- Make sure you’re comfortable with the payment options. You should not be asked to pay cash to a salesperson instead of a check, money order or credit card.

**References**

- Confirm that the contractor has a verifiable mailing address for their business.
- Check{Massachusetts state licensing board to ensure the business has no unresolved complaints.

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