When Hiring A Contractor for
Home Improvement or Repair
Check out the contractor:
♦ Interview each contractor you are considering, ask for and check references.
♦ Get estimates from at least three different contractors for comparison.
♦ Verify if a contractor is licensed bonded and insured to do work in
the City of Cleveland by calling the City of Cleveland Department
of Building & Housing at (216) 664-2910.
♦ Check with the local Better Business Bureau to see if a contractor
has had any complaints.
♦ Avoid oral contracts! Insist on a written contract that includes the
contractor’s name, address, telephone number, license/registration
number, a complete description of all work to be done, start and
end date, total price, any additions or changes made, and any
warranties including timelines.
Make sure that the contractor obtains a permit to do the work — DO NOT let the
contractor convince you to get a homeowners permit for the work. Request to see the
permit before the work begins.
Understand your payment options:
♦ DO NOT let the contractor arrange a loan for you.
♦ Make sure that you have an affordable payment schedule.
♦ DO NOT pay the full amount up front.
♦ Pay a reasonable down payment and pay the balance upon
completion and final inspection of the project.
♦ AVOID PAYING CASH and always get a receipt for all
payments.
♦ Keep copies of all your paperwork!
For more information contact:
Department of Consumer Affairs
500 Lakeside Avenue, Second Floor
Cleveland, Ohio 44114
Phone: 216-664-4529
Fax: 216-420-8162
www.cleveland-oh.gov
Se habla Español
“Dedicated to the protection of
Cleveland Consumers.”