Insist on written, signed contracts.
If a company representative or contractor claims his or her handshake is as good as a contract, it probably is not. Reputable companies that sell large-ticket items insist on contracts.
Don’t make a hiring decision based on a company’s sign in your neighbor’s yard
A company’s sign in your neighbor’s yard does not mean your neighbor was satisfied with the company’s work. Multiple homeowners have reported hiring a company simply because a neighbor had previously hired the company.
Avoid cash payments
Be wary of contractors who insist on cash. A few contractors and service providers demand cash payments or offer substantial discounts for cash payments to avoid bounced checks, garnished wages and Uncle Sam (although we have no direct proof of any company engaged in tax avoidance).