Downpayments for home remodeling/repairs

[Jenson71]

Is this common, in your experience or your knowledge, to put a down payment on a cosmetic home remodeling project (e.g., windows, roof, siding)? Would you do it?

[Why Not?]

If it’s a well know, reputable company or on recommendation of a trusted person, sure. Some dude off of Facebook or something, no ****ing way.

[loochy]

Originally Posted by Why Not?

If it’s a well know, reputable company or on recommendation of a trusted person, sure. Some dude off of Facebook or something, no ****ing way.

This.


Or maybe workout something with smaller interval progress payouts no neither side gets screwed.

[Buehler445]

Originally Posted by Why Not?

If it’s a well know, reputable company or on recommendation of a trusted person, sure. Some dude off of Facebook or something, no ****ing way.

This. If you know ****all about them tell them to bill you weekly with receipts.

I haven't done it, but I watched Dad do it and got the Tshirt. **** that. With a D9 Cat.

But if it's someone reputable, sure. No problem.

[DaFace]

Originally Posted by Why Not?

If it’s a well know, reputable company or on recommendation of a trusted person, sure. Some dude off of Facebook or something, no ****ing way.

I wouldn't hire the rando on Facebook in the first place, but if I was forced to, I would expect to put at least some money down in advance. It's unlikely that most contractors would front all the money for materials on their own.

Things like windows, in particular, have to be custom built, so it's reasonable that a contractor wouldn't want to take on a bunch of non-refundable materials for someone who might flake out on them.

I think the more important thing here is to fully vet whoever you're hiring to the point that you're not worried about them running away with your money.

[el borracho]

Originally Posted by Why Not?

If it’s a well know, reputable company or on recommendation of a trusted person, sure. Some dude off of Facebook or something, no ****ing way.

This... but also, you can sometimes arrange to pay the materials directly.

For example, if the job requires lumber you can have the contractor put together an order at the lumber yard then phone in the payment to the lumber yard. Or perhaps go to the lumber yard with the contractor and pay directly.

[2bikemike]

Originally Posted by el borracho

This... but also, you can sometimes arrange to pay the materials directly.

For example, if the job requires lumber you can have the contractor put together an order at the lumber yard then phone in the payment to the lumber yard. Or perhaps go to the lumber yard with the contractor and pay directly.

This right here is how I like to go. I use my credit card that earns rewards. Nothing like a good reno job to earn points for a free flight to Belize!

I would not put more than 25% down, and I would hold the final 25% back until your are satisfied with the job. Keep a running punch list of items you want corrected as the project rolls along.

Communication is key when dealing with contractors. Everything should be spelled out in writing on what is expected, work required, payment schedules etc. Don't ever rely on a verbal promise.

[Jewish Rabbi]

I just do my own shit so I don’t have to worry about it.

[scho63]

Originally Posted by Jewish Rabbi

I just do my own shit so I don’t have to worry about it.

Jerking off while holding a screwdriver and wearing a tool belt isn't a renovation project.

[Jewish Rabbi]

Originally Posted by scho63

Jerking off while holding a screwdriver and wearing a tool belt isn't a renovation project.

Cut down on the spending on hookers and maybe you could afford to own a home bub

[scho63]

Originally Posted by Jewish Rabbi

Cut down on the spending on hookers and maybe you could afford to own a home bub

Then how would you get your allowance money from your Mom?

[Bearcat]

Many times it's either 50% or parts for reputable companies, then you pay the rest/labor when they complete the work.

I'd put it on a credit card if you can (and of course sign a contract), makes it far easier to get back. I had a company go bankrupt between the time I paid the first half and the time they were scheduled, and Chase refunded more quickly than filing paperwork with the contractor's association.

[DJJasonp]

I had to report a contractor to the California board of contractors......

In California, contractors can ask for a deposit of a maximum of 10% of the total cost of the project.

[notorious]

Originally Posted by DJJasonp

I had to report a contractor to the California board of contractors......

In California, contractors can ask for a deposit of a maximum of 10% of the total cost of the project.

They'd have to have another account set up to purchase material because 10% isn't near enough for most job material.


I charge what the material down is, and tell my customers that they will not get on my schedule or have material ordered until the check is received.

[alpha_omega]

Just had the bathroom remodeled. 25% down, balance on completion.