Home Improvement FAQs

Q: How much should I pay a contractor up front?
A:  Usually 10 to 30% is an acceptable down payment to make. One thing you should never do is pay for the job in full before it has been completed.  Make sure there is a contract, with a detailed payment schedule, between you and the contractor. It is also wise to keep back a retainer amount, usually 10% until the job has been fully completed.

Q: What steps should I take if my contractor does not complete my job?
A: Follow the steps outlined in the section: “How do I file a complaint against a business or contractor”.

Q: If a plumber or electrician charges me an exorbitant fee after doing the job, do I have to pay that price?
A: If you did not have a quote (actual cost of the job within 10%) from the service provider before the job was started, then you are liable to pay the cost charged to you by the contractor.  However, if the charges are excessive or exorbitant, it may be viewed by the courts as not reasonable.  A reasonable price is the norm for that job in that field of trade. Before resorting to court action, however, follow the steps outlined in: “How do I file a complaint against a business or contractor”.

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