But ultimately, the owner is responsible for making sure the required permits are obtained. Make sure a final inspection is done when the work is completed. Pay in installments. Find a balance where the contractor has enough money to buy materials and finish work, and you have enough at the finish date to ensure satisfactory completion. Don't let your payments get ahead of the work completed.
Some contractors run out of money before work is done.
The business will then bid more jobs to get more money. Unfortunately, a few scam businesses have no intention of completing work once thy have received payment. For bigger projects, you can establish an escrow account at a bank. Make payments in stages as the work is completed and has passed the inspections. Click here to receive up to four Free estimates from prescreened and insured contractors.