What to ask the contractor
About a month ago, I hired a company to install a water softener. A crew of three men came, installed everything and left. This wasn't a crew from some fly-by-night company. They've done business in my community for other families before, so I assumed that they were a reputable business. Turns out, they weren't. The water softener never worked well, and all I got in response were excuses. I reported them to the Better Business Bureau, and now I'm getting ready to take them to court.
I might have avoided this mess if I had followed a few simple rules when hiring a contractor. So, here are some questions to ask before you decide to hire someone for a job:
1. Are you licensed to do this work?
2. Are you bonded? (This is to ensure that you are protected in case the contractor goes out of business.)
3. Are you insured? (This is to cover any injuries of workers so that you aren't sued for medical bills.)
4. Can you provide references I can contact?
5. Will you put all the details in writing?
6. When will you pull the permit? (The contractor is the one who needs to do this. Be sure you ask to see that permit. Don't let them start working without the permit if this is a job that requires one.)
7. How long have they been working in your area? (Working in an area for a long time is an indicator -- not a guarantee -- that their work is usually satisfactory.)
8. What is the timetable for this job? (Find out when they'll start and expect to finish. If you sign a contract, be sure you get all the details and make it clear that you'll deduct money for each day they delay.)
In addition to asking these questions, never pay upfront, and I mean never! Too many scammers just take the money and run. If they can't do the job without getting paid first, find someone else. Once they have your money, they have no incentive to live up to any agreement.
— Catharine W., in
Oklahoma Want to improve the health of your skin? Try out some of these hints:
• Drink a glass of water before bed and first thing in the morning. Hydration is important for any complexion.
• Ask your doctor if they think a daily multivitamin is right for you.
• When you wash your face, only use your fingerpad in a circular motion to gently spread the soap and loosen any dirt or makeup.
• Stop using facials. They cause your skin to contract, then relax, causing stretching of the skin.
• Keep your hands off your face as much as possible.
• Use moisturizer during the day and a good night cream at night.
• Never sleep in your makeup. Your skin needs to breath, so get all of that makeup off before going to bed.