Red flags in a contractor's first site visit

These warning signs can show up at the first visit, before any money changes hands. Take your time before you decide on a contractor.

How they talk

• Pressure to decide right awayIt leaves no time to compare bids, check the license or call references.
• Working nearby, with materials left overA contractor who turns up unannounced, saying they're working nearby and have materials left from another job, can take the money and do little or no work.
• No written contractA contractor who won't give you copies of the license, the insurance or a written contract is a red flag.

How they want to be paid

• Cash onlyIf they want cash up front, walk away.
• The whole price up frontHold the final payment until the work is done and you're satisfied.
• A lender they knowA contractor-arranged loan can end as a high-interest home equity loan secured by your house, with the work left unfinished.
• Wire transfers, gift cards, payment apps or cryptocurrencyPay by credit card or check instead.
• Your insurance check signed over to themNever sign an insurance check over to a contractor, and don't rely on a contractor to tell you what your policy covers.
• A fee to help you get disaster aidFEMA doesn't charge application fees. Anyone who wants money to help you qualify for FEMA funds is running a scam.

What they leave out

• A license number you haven't looked upSeeing a license number doesn't mean the license is valid. Check its status with your state or county.
• No proof of insuranceAsk for the certificate of insurance, check its expiration date, and contact the company that issued it to confirm it.
• Permits left to youA contractor who asks you to get the permits may be unlicensed or not qualified for the job.

After the visit

• A search of the company's nameSearch it with words like "scam," "review" or "complaint," and ask people you trust whether they've used the company.
• Several written bidsCheck three to five references for similar jobs before choosing.
• A payment schedule in the contractDon't pay cash. Write the schedule into the contract before work begins.
• A name for who runs the jobAsk who will oversee the work from start to finish, and get that person's contact information.

Write down what you saw at the visit, with the date and the contractor's name. The questions to ask before you hire anyone covers what to ask at the next one.