Hiring the Right Contractor Starts With Knowing What to Look For

Before you bring any contractor onto your property, you need to know they are qualified, compliant, and protected. Whether the project involves commercial construction, residential improvements, or routine service work, the people you hire directly affect your safety, your property, and your bottom line.

At Aegis Insurance & Financial Services, we help clients make these choices with confidence.

Vehicle and Equipment Safety

Contractors often bring heavy equipment and commercial vehicles onto your site. This can include bucket trucks, service vans, excavators, lifts, and other tools that require skilled operation.

You should confirm that any contractor working at height or handling mechanical equipment follows strict safety practices. Ask about training, inspection records, and how they manage risks while working near power lines, rooftops, or public areas.

A single unsafe vehicle or poorly-handled lift on your property can create expensive liability risks.

Bonding and Permits

Any reputable contractor should be bonded and able to show proof on request. A bond protects you if the contractor fails to complete the job or causes significant errors.

You should also verify that the contractor has secured all required local and state permits before breaking ground. Starting work without the right permits can lead to stop work orders, fines, and delays that fall back on you as the property owner.

New Construction vs. Repairs

The needs of new construction projects differ from repairs or renovations. HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and landscaping contractors must understand the type of project they are taking on.

Experience in repairs does not automatically qualify a contractor for complex installations or new builds. Make sure the contractor has a track record that matches your project scope.

Workers Compensation Coverage

Workers' Compensation coverage protects both the contractor’s employees and you as the client. If a worker is injured on your property and the contractor lacks proper coverage, you could face costly claims. Always request a current Certificate of Insurance and verify that Workers' Compensation is active and adequate for the size of the crew.

Why Contract Reviews Matter

Many construction and service contracts include detailed insurance requirements. Before you sign anything, consider having an insurance broker like Aegis review the contract to confirm you aren’t accepting unnecessary liability or working with a contractor who can’t meet required insurance limits.

A contract review can also uncover missing endorsements, insufficient coverage, or unclear responsibilities that could cause problems during or after the job.

The Risk of Hiring Unqualified Contractors

Cutting corners with low-cost or unverified contractors can lead to accidents, property damage, unfinished work, and legal exposure. Contractors who ignore safety protocols or fail to maintain their equipment put you and your business at risk.

If they skip permits or lack basic insurance, you could be left paying for the consequences. A little due diligence on the front end can prevent major losses later.

Take the Next Step

Before you hire any contractor for major construction, renovations, or repairs, contact Aegis Insurance & Financial Services. Request a contract review and get the guidance you need to protect your project, your property, and your peace of mind.

Contact us at 713-850-7622 to schedule a contract review or fill out our free quote form on this page to request more information.

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