As a homeowner, it’s important to do your research and only hire Insured Home Service companies. Be selective when it comes to the contractors you hire. After all, these are the people who will be working on your most valuable asset – your home. Homeowners are always looking for ways to save money. In today’s economy, it’s more important than ever to be frugal with your finances. However, there are some areas where you should never compromise, and one of those is hiring an insured home service company. Here’s why:
Homeowner Protection: Something Goes Wrong, You’re Covered
Accidents happen. Even the most experienced and well-trained home service professionals can make mistakes that can cause injuries or damage. If one of these professionals makes a mistake while working in or around your home, you could be held liable if they are not properly insured.
For example, let’s say a painter working in your home slips and falls, injuring themselves in the process. If a contractor doesn’t have insurance, you could be sued for medical expenses. However, if they are properly insured, their insurance policy will cover damages and medical expenses, while working on your property.
If workers are injured while working on your project and aren’t covered by general liability and workmen’s compensation, you could be held liable to pay. If the damage was done to your home, your homeowner’s policy may pay, but there could be instances where they may refuse. Only hiring insured contractors protects you from these potential risks.
Credibility: Avoid Unlicensed Home Service Contractors
Hiring an uninsured contractor puts you at risk of being taken advantage of. These individuals often lack the proper training and experience to do the job right. As a result, you could end up spending more money to fix their mistakes than if you had just hired a licensed and insured professional in the first place. To be licensed, both insurance and a certain degree of skill are required to do the job with confidence.
Research Before Inquiring or Hiring: Go with the Insured Home Service
Let’s be honest. It only makes sense to spend money on services we cannot do ourselves if we are confident that the company we hire is an expert in their field. Otherwise, why would we not just attempt the job ourselves and potentially save some money? The guy you found on Facebook with no company website or business page that does the work on the side is most likely not going to have a registered business with the state, general liability insurance, and the willingness to stand behind their work. Insured companies will have the credentials to handle your project and you can rest assured that it is in good hands. If a licensed contractor fails to do the job correctly, you can report them. Some business entities useful for reporting is the Better Business Bureau, Google, and other forms of public business forums.
Hiring an insured home service company may cost you a little bit more upfront, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind and protection it provides. So, the next time you need to hire a home service contractor, make sure they are properly licensed and insured. It could save you a lot of money and headaches down the road.
Why are reputable companies more expensive than an individual you find online?
Running a business is not free. General Liability Insurance, Workmen’s Compensation, safety equipment, fuel, fair wages for employees, health insurance coverage, training, continuing education, and so much more must be paid to run a business. Yes, when hiring an insured business you are going to be paying a little bit more for their services, but that difference in price is for good reasons.
Things to look for to determine if a company is more reputable than others?
- Is there a company website or business page on Google or Facebook?
- Ask: Does the company have General Liability and Workmen’s Compensation insurance? Ask them politely to share a copy with you.
- Does the company have any reviews on past work they have completed?
- Is there a phone number, email address, and mailing address that you can contact?
- Does the company answer the phone when you call?
Conclusion: Homeowner Protection with an Insured Home Service Company
Next time you need to hire a home service company, be sure to check their insurance policy first. It’s always better to be safe than sorry! Choose to save money in the long run. If something does go wrong, you will be covered should something happen.
If you are in need of Chimney, Fireplace, or Masonry services, Masters Services Chimney & Masonry is insured with General Liability Insurance, Workmen’s Compensation, and Harness & Helmet Safety Systems. We service the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Houston, and Oklahoma City residents. We are an insured home service business with over 25 years in the industry. Schedule a free estimate or Camera Chimney inspection by calling 972-877-4650 or visiting: Contact Us