(301) 384-6290 office@themowerman.com

Last week we introduced you to the dangers of working with what the Maryland Home Improvement Commission calls a “Chuck with a Truck.” This week we’ll take a look at recognizing an actual licensed contractor from a possible scam artist.

The first rule is to check their MHIC License number. It should be posted on the sides of his vehicle (for example The Mower Man’s is 93037). Then make sure its valid by heading over to the MHIC website at http://dllr.maryland.gov/license/mhic/ or call 1-888-218-5925.

Here are a few other important tips:

  • Does the contractor have current liability insurance? Ask for a copy of it.
  • Ask for and contact local references to find out about
    • Reliability
    • Staying on budget
    • Response times via phone and/or email
    • Would they hire them again?
  • All contractor’s employees need a current worker’s compensation insurance certificate
  • Any subcontractors need to have a valid MHIC license as well

Once you’ve checked out their credentials, it is always a good idea to have a written agreement with your contractor for the work they will be doing. Then stick to it or amend it if the project changes. This means there is a plan, a budget and a time frame for completion.

If the deal is too good to be true then it probably is. For The Mower Man and At Your Home Services our reputation is everything. We provide quality service you can count on – from our people to the products we install – and at a fair price. Give us a call at 301-384-6290 or visit our website at www.themowerman.com.

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