Qualifications aren't just a piece of paper, carry out proper research before choosing a contractor.


Some say 'its not over till its over' - except if you are on the wrong end of a builder from hell - then you will be wanting to rewind back time and do anything to save your home or office from the unwanted attentions of a rogue cowboy builder!In most cases the blame can be set squarely on the tradesperson themselves, rather than many of the other factors that people tend to blame when their project doesn't go to plan.
We can avoid this headache entirely if we set out with a clear plan for how to find a tried and tested tradesperson - here's some tips how:

1. Recommendations from friends and family

This is one of the most direct ways to establish whether a tradesperson is worth their salt or not, not only can we expect a good finish if a tradesperson comes recommended, we can go a step further - visit and inspect the work done, ask about timeframes, how the workers handled their workspace and any other relevant information that may concern you, plus you will be notified if anything untoward or unusual is to be expected and it can help save you many a headache in the long run.



2. Meeting the Contractor On-site

A pivotal point in your relationship with a potential contractor is meeting them on site to discuss the work you would like to have done. This opportunity is not to be wasted, one should take time and care to ask any questions, the bigger the job the more exhaustive you should be in your questioning, for many contractors they will appreciate the interest you show and have an easier time the more clear you are about the timeframes involved and work to be undertaken.

Don't forget that first impressions matter a great deal and its important to establish whether you want to do business with the tradesperson in question or not.



3. Good Communication

You don't need the greatest banter in the world to decide to employ a tradesperson, but every little helps. Making sure that you have a clear and honest exchange of information with a potential tradesperson is key. Be clear with your expectations and don't be afraid to ask questions, you should feel comfortable with the work and you should feel like your money is being well spent!



4. Bespoke service

When dealing with a potential tradesperson much can be learned from their demeanor - if they are a professional they will ask to meet and to see the work that you are interested in having carried out, they should be interested in the scope, location, materials and timeframe of the job and you should be wary if they advertise low prices or guaranteed satisfaction before having a clear idea of the work involved. Every project is its own story and they should be as invested as you are.



5. Reviews Online

It's very likely that any tradesperson that you interested in employing is registered in online platforms for finding work or they have a social media presence. One should be wary in trusting everything they see online but these avenues of inquiry can yield valuable insight into the level of workmanship and quality that the tradesperson can offer.



Good luck on your crusade for able help and if you are looking for a good start in finding a quality tradesperson than you have come to the right place, RatedHands can help!