ABA Family Legal Guide

Contracts and Consumer Law

Special Consumer Protections

Home and Home Appliance Repair and Improvements

How may I protect myself?

Get several written estimates. Check into a contractor's track record with the Better Business Bureau and other customers before you sign a contract. Don't pay the full price in advance, and certainly not in cash. Don't sign a completion certificate or receipt until the contractor finishes the work to your satisfaction—including cleanup.