subject: The 8 Things To Know Before Hiring A Water Main & Sewer Contractor [print this page] The 8 Things To Know Before Hiring A Water Main & Sewer Contractor
If you did not know already, not everybody is on the up-and-up (big surprise). I have compiled a list of eight things to know, or "Red Flags", that you should be aware of when you considering hiring a sewer or water main contractor. If you can add to this list, just email me and let me know. This site gladly accepts comments and suggestions.
The quote and scope of work are verbal, and the Contractor is reluctant to put it in writing "Trust me." I don't think so.
Quoting over the phone and being reluctant to actually visit the site. All reputable water main and sewer Contractors offer free site visits and free estimates.
The proposed contract includes more about "extras" than about the service you are paying for. You're the Customer, it should be more about you.
The company is covered by someone elses license, or is not licensed. Check on a Company's license status: NYC DOB License Check.
The individual claims to be business for years and years, but the Company name is only around a few months. Big red flag! Check on a business: Better Business Bureau Business Check.
The Contractor proposes a repair, when you probably need a replacement. It is not to save you money. It is to hit you for extra work later on.
A long term guarantee on the sewer or water main work (not a Warranty!!) is not in writing. This goes in the same category as "Trust me." There is an old saying "If it is not in writing, it's not."
Do a Google search on the company. If there are more negative reviews or "bad" news about the company than positive reviews, you probably have the wrong guy!
And always remember if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. The sewer and water main industry is comprised mostly of hard working and honest people. But jsut like in many businesses, the 'bad guys' sometimes ruin it for the 'good guys'. Shop carefully and you will end up with a high quality sewer or water main installation that will last for decades, not months.
