Licensed, Insured & Bonded: The Scary Pitfalls of Hiring an Unqualified Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

Planning for a new kitchen remodel is a lot of work. You want to prepare for what to expect from a qualified contractor before you hire. Here is “Licensed, Insured & Bonded: The Scary Pitfalls of Hiring an Unqualified Kitchen Remodeling Contractor” to get you ready for the days ahead. 

HFS Financial has been helping contractors and homeowners with home improvement financing for close to 60 years. We have worked with countless homeowners to help them have an enjoyable experience as they update their homes from start to finish. Let us help you avoid entering into a contract with an unqualified kitchen remodeling contractor.

Dangers of Kitchen Remodeling Contractors Without a License

First, let’s talk about the issues that can arise if a home remodeling contractor doesn’t have a license. Every state has different licensing requirements as far as the skills and knowledge necessary for getting a contractor’s license. For this reason, there are contractors, unskilled in a specific area of expertise and possibly unlicensed, who bid on projects. 

Perhaps you unknowingly hire a contractor to wire the new kitchen that is not licensed for electrical work. Then you could be walking into a world of hazards waiting to make their presence known. An unlicensed plumber would also be a liability when it comes to a kitchen remodeling project. Mold and mildew problems could result when the contractor doesn’t install pipes and sinks correctly. So, tip #1 is obvious: Check into the licensing of any contractor you are considering. 

Drawbacks of Kitchen Remodeling Contractors with No or Insufficient Insurance Coverage

Next, let’s discuss the ins and outs of insurance to expect from your remodeling contractor. There are various types of insurance options available. Some contractors don’t get any insurance at all or try to get by with the bare minimum required. You want to find a contractor that has sufficient coverage.

Look for liability coverage first. This type of insurance should cover the contractor’s work as well as any damage that the contractor might cause. Also watch for worker’s comp coverage. An honest, reputable contractor will have the means to care for themself and their employees if a work-related injury occurs. Tip #2: Be sure the contractor is insured. As the homeowner, you can be held liable for any injuries or errors that take place on your property if the contractor is uninsured.

Disadvantages of Hiring a Kitchen Remodeling Contractor with No Bond

Finally, we’ve made it to tip #3 from “Licensed, Insured & Bonded: The Scary Pitfalls of Hiring an Unqualified Kitchen Remodeling Contractor.” Hiring a contractor with bonding is beneficial. A bond is protection for the homeowner if a contractor fails to complete the promised work or does a poor job that has to be remedied. Remodeling contractors should be able to show you information about their company’s bond number and which business is securing the bond. 

Now you understand the importance of hiring carefully. Look for license, insurance, and bond information before you sign any contract. Also, remember that HFS Financial is here to help with home improvement financing when you have finalized that first step of a great home improvement experience. It takes only 60 seconds to apply today for any home improvement loan. Contact us at 1-800-254-9560 to find out more. “You Dream It, We Finance It!”