Top 10 tricks from Bad Contractors: Protect Yourself in 2025

Are you aware of the top 10 ways bad contractors can rip you off? Eric G, host of the Around the House show, dives into the murky waters of home improvement scams to arm you with the knowledge you need to protect yourself. While there are countless reputable contractors ready to help you with your projects, a few bad apples can spoil the bunch. From hidden fees to unlicensed subcontractors, Eric outlines the red flags to watch for when hiring a contractor. He emphasizes the importance of detailed contracts, proper licensing, and understanding payment schedules to ensure you’re not left in a bind. Tune in to learn how to navigate these pitfalls and make informed decisions for your home renovations. Navigating the world of home improvement can often feel like walking through a minefield, especially when it comes to hiring contractors. Eric G dives deep into the top 10 tactics that unscrupulous contractors might use to exploit homeowners, ensuring listeners are well-equipped to spot red flags before they get burned. From changing the budget mid-project without proper documentation to hiring unlicensed subcontractors, Eric articulates common pitfalls with vivid examples, emphasizing the importance of transparency and communication in contractor-client relationships. He also sheds light on the significance of proper licensing and insurance, urging homeowners to verify credentials before signing on the dotted line. Each tactic discussed serves as an essential reminder to approach home renovations with diligence and caution, as the stakes are high and the ramifications of negligence can last for years. As the conversation unfolds, Eric highlights the critical role that proper contracts and detailed scopes of work play in protecting both homeowners and contractors. He advocates for itemized estimates that detail every aspect of the project, ensuring that clients fully understand what they are paying for. This not only helps in setting clear expectations but also minimizes the potential for disputes later on. Furthermore, Eric addresses the often-overlooked but crucial aspect of building trust with contractors through referrals and personal connections, suggesting that a solid reputation can be a homeowner's best defense against fraud. The episode culminates in a call to action for homeowners to remain vigilant and proactive in their approach to home improvement projects. Eric encourages listeners to equip themselves with knowledge and confidence, ensuring that they can discern between trustworthy contractors and those looking to take advantage of unsuspecting clients. With insights that blend practical advice with real-world scenarios, this episode serves as an indispensable resource for anyone looking to embark on home renovations in 2025. Takeaways: Be cautious of contractors who change the budget after the contract is signed without any change orders. Always verify that your contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured to protect yourself legally. Ensure all subcontractors hired by your contractor are also licensed, bonded, and insured. Before paying any contractor, check that they are pulling the necessary permits for your project. Avoid contractors who request excessive down payments that exceed state regulations. Always review the scope of work in your contract to prevent misunderstandings during the project. Companies mentioned in this episode: Monument Grill Angie's List To get your questions answered by Eric G give us a call in the studio at 833-239-4144 24/7 and Eric G will get back to you and answer your question and you might end up in a future episode of Around the House. Thanks for listening to Around the house if you want to hear more please subscribe so you get notified of the latest episode as it posts at https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/listen If you want to join the Around the House Insider for access to the back catalog, Exclusive Content and a direct email to Eric G and access to the show early https://around-the-house-with-e.captivate.fm/support We love comments and we would love reviews on how this information has helped you on your house! Thanks for listening! For more information about the show head to https://aroundthehouseonline.com/ Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show. 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