As more and more homeowners are becoming savvy with the Better Business Bureau and the individual State Department of Consumer Affairs, these customers are learning how to manipulate and take advantage of small contractors.
As a contractor business owner, there are many different things you can do to ensure proper and timely payment, and protection from the dreaded manipulative customer. And the best method of ensuring that you are protected is to make contractual agreements. I have advised several of my HVAC Contractors to put together a well composed Home Improvement Contract that is put together and endorsed by an Attorney. Starting and maintaining a solid relationship with an Attorney is one of the best investments that you can make for your business. Another advantage of having a customized contract is that you can include clauses for change orders, payment requests and potential Lien statements within the contract and protect yourself from any probable liabilities.