Get the Real Story

Surprisingly, many homeowners never actually check the references of a home improvement contractor they are considering to hire. Talking with other homeowners who were past customers of a contractor can give you insight into the contractor's work ethic. Of course, if you have the opportunity, going to see the work done for a past client is an ideal way to see for yourself. You never know, your quality standards may differ from the happy client's.

Never feel as if you are imposing. Obviously, the contractor will provide names of satisfied homeowners who are willing to give glowing references. Assessing the value of the reference is just as crucial as how well the contractor performed his job. So you must consider how credible the reference is.

Some factors to consider about the homeowner giving the reference:
Did the homeowner know the contractor before hiring them? How long ago did this contractor work for the homeowner? If this reference is not a recent client, warning bells should ring. You need to wonder why they couldn't provide you with a satisfied customer from the last 3 or 4 jobs performed.

Once you determine that this particular reference is credible, you are ready to ask questions about the home improvement contractor.
 ------------------------------------------------------