By Paul Bookbinder, M.I.D., C.R.
First uttered in 1948 by the bandit leader Gold Hat, (Alfonso Bedoya), to Fred C. Dobbs (Humphrey Bogart) in The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, the actual quotation is “I don’t have to show you any stinkin’ badges.” But since contractors don’t get badges, only licenses, I thought I’d make the phrase more relevant. And, just as Fred C. Dobbs wasn’t fooled for one single minute by these ruffians without proper credentials, neither should you fall prey to their machinations.
During the great recession, almost 2,000,000 construction workers have lost their jobs. Giving each one of them the benefit of the doubt, let’s assume that they are all hard-working craftsmen who are experts in their chosen field. With no jobs available, many are marketing themselves as remodelers, and who can blame them? They need to work. But even a master carpenter is usually not well versed in all the other aspects of contracting, such as business management, scheduling, designing, planning, electric, plumbing, etc. It takes a lot more than experience in one area of remodeling to be a successful contractor, and your Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) is well aware of this. That’s why they require contractors to be licensed, and you can check the reputation of a licensed contractor by contacting the DCP and the Better Business Bureau.
And, since last year, the federal government has required that every contractor in the country must be certified by the EPA in regard to safe lead paint practices. So, when you’re checking to see if a prospective contractor is licensed, now you also need to check for EPA certification.
The DCP also requires that licensed contractors maintain current worker’s compensation, disability, liability and vehicle insurance. This protects the consumer from any financial exposure due to accidents that occur, on their property, during the course of a remodel. If a worker without insurance gets hurt while working at your home, YOU may be responsible for their medical and disability payments for a long time to come. And beware, there’s a loop-hole in the New York State Worker’s Compensation insurance law! If a contractor (even one who is licensed) is the sole employee of their company, they can waive Worker’s Compensation insurance coverage; still get their license; and you’re still liable for medical payments if they get hurt! It’s best to ask the contractor for proof of actual coverage.
I know how tempting it is to hire “this guy” you’ve heard about from a friend. You heard he’s quick, he’s cheap, and he does great work. Just keep in mind that there is no recourse if something goes wrong. He may be quick and cheap but can you find him again if something goes awry? Who will you complain to if promises are not fulfilled? Will he be around to honor his warranty? Will he steal your gold?
If you feel the short term financial savings overweighs all the aforementioned liabilities, I wish you luck. Go ahead and hire someone who has no stinkin’ license. But if you’re looking for peace of mind and long term contentment, look for someone Fred C. Dobbs would trust: a contractor who can proudly show you their license.
Paul Bookbinder, m.i.d., c.r., is president of DreamWork Kitchens, Inc. located in Mamaroneck, New York. A Master of Design (Pratt Institute), and E.P.A. Certified Remodeler, he is an advisor for Kitchen & Bath Design News. A member of the Advisory Panel of Professional Remodeler magazine and the National Kitchen and Bath Association, he can be reached for questions at 914-777-0437 or www.dreamworkkitchens.com.