A friend’s husband decided he needed some work done on their home. He gets points for enthusiasm and for starting to find contractors to do the job, but he didn’t research the company carefully. My friend started getting emails from the company that didn’t sit well with her. The phone numbers were never to a direct line and the folks they signed up with were never available.
She then looked up reviews for the company online. They were not good. The couple decided to cancel the project, but the company tried to keep them on the hook for a lot of money.
The two were finally able to get out from under that company, but the whole situation made me wonder how to find contractors who are reputable. I do many projects on my home by myself, but I know that someday I will need a trustworthy contractor to tackle larger projects.
Avista’s website has a page to help folks in Washington, Idaho and Oregon find a contractor. Just enter what kind of contractor you are looking for, the equipment you need installed and your zip code. Whether you are looking for a contractor that specializes in HVAC, electrical or solar panels, Avista will provide the names and contact information for companies that will offer free estimates and proposals, one-year minimum warranty on equipment or parts, and a 24-hour answering service.
It really takes the guesswork out of the whole process. You can find your next contractor knowing that you won’t be taken in by someone disreputable.
Lisa, an Avista customer, bought her 1910 house because she loved the old-world character, some of which doesn’t make her house very energy efficient. Lisa is sharing her experience on taking some simple do-it-yourself improvements to inspire others to do the same. You’ll find her stories right here every Tuesday morning.