Bamboozled by Manhattan Beach Electricians

Contractors aren’t as likely to bamboozle someone who knows what they need, and don’t need. Below are a list of helpful ways to not get bamboozled by an electrician.

1. Define your issue rather than your need. Give as much detail of your situation that you can. Most customers who call for service do not know what they need before they call. Given that most surveys say that a huge fear of home owners is being taken advantage of by unscrupulous contractors, the first defense is to do a bit of note taking before you call so you can explain what problem you’re having. This will save you time and money in the long run.

2. Define your urgency. Set a realistic expectation of service. If you need someone out today, of course it’s going to be more expensive. Tell the contractor that you need the service done, but that it’s not urgent; usually 3-5 business days is a good standard for advanced notice. Unless urgency IS key, it is better to tell them up front. Doing a reverse bamboozle to the contractor isn’t going to get you a great attitude.

3. Be prepared by asking the correct questions. Most contractors are not equipped with great questions because 95% of them work from home and out of a truck. Even the great contractors will often ‘wing it’ when it comes to details. So, you should ask some well placed questions so you know what to expect. Ask about how long to expect them to stay? Ask them if they need any special access to attics, basements, etc. Ask about whether they clean and haul job debris, if they will split payment up so you can make the final payment after they are done.

4. Talk to at least 3 contractors before making a decision. How to choose? Don’t just choose the lowest bidder. Almost always the lowest bidder will not end up being the lowest when they tell you that items and details were not clear up front and therefore not included in their bid. Choose based on reputation over at least a six month period. Things change in the contractor world and it’s good to have relevant and recent reviews.

5. Treat your contractor with respect. Write a review, offer to refer, and tell them what you liked, and didn’t like. Building a relationship with one good contractor can help you get other good contractors in other fields. The old adage, birds of a feather flock together is true for contractors as well. The good ones refuse to recommend their substandard peers. The great ones know all the other good ones. Quid Pro Quo is the name of the game here. You’ll have a much better chance of getting treated with white gloves, and extra service because contractors love to be loved, too.

There is no way to screen every contractor you call perfectly, but if you find a good one, keep them. They are rare, and they bring rare partners. You can hedge against being bamboozled by Manhattan Beach Electricians by being organized, knowing your urgency, asking the right questions, talking to several before hiring, and treating them with respect.