How Do I Know If a Contractor is Legitimate?

Another great place to verify a contractor’s legitimacy in Oregon is the Construction Contractors Board, where you can Check Licenses and Report Activity. This is the governing body in the State of Oregon that oversees all contracting activity to protect the public from unscrupulous actors pretending to be contractors and to ensure that what is constructed or repaired is safe and brings value to the community where the project is completed.

Why Would a Contractor Need Insurance?

Accidents happen. Contractor activity, including employees, often involves the use of heavy and potentially dangerous equipment. Trucks, excavators, cranes, and tools, if not maintained and used correctly, can lead to damage to property or injuries to others. Business Owner Insurance addresses these possible losses by offering Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability Coverages.

A contractor invests a lot of money in the tools and equipment they use while performing the project’s requirements. Those assets are subject to loss by fire, theft, and other damage that render them useless. A Business Owner Policy can cover these items while stored on the contractor’s premises, in transit to the job site, or while located where the project is being performed.

How Many Bids Should I Ask For?

When selecting a contractor, you must balance the cost with the quality of the finished project. You have the right to request an estimate of labor and materials costs and the projected start and completion dates. A highly-regarded contractor might be in high demand and charge more for their work than industry standards. You should never feel pressured to accept the first sales pitch and bid that comes along. Many wait until they have at least three before making a decision.