While Techo-Pro contractors are prescreened by Techo-Bloc to meet certain standards, it is important that you do some research of your own. Here are a few helpful tips on selecting the right contractor for you:

• Be sure to ask for at least three references.
  
  
• Ask to see examples of their work, making sure that the contractor has sufficient experience performing the scope and type of work you want.
  
  
• Not every contractor is going to have a retail-style place of business; many, in fact, work out of an office in their home. This doesn’t make them any less qualified or skilled. More important are their credit references, years in business, and insurance status.

• Speaking of insurance: ask to see their liability coverage and workmen's compensation insurance certificates.

• Comparison shop: get at least two but preferably three estimates from different contractors.

• Get a thorough proposal in writing. Be sure to include a complete description of the work to be performed, specific products to be used, warranty length and coverage, payment terms, and any other pertinent issues.

• Do not allow the use of “substitute materials,” and be wary of any written stipulations or clauses that permit their use.

• Especially important for larger jobs: have the contractor put in writing the stipulation that all code requirements will be met, and denote who will be responsible for obtaining the necessary permits.

• If it seems to good to be true, it probably is. Be suspicious of bids that are unrealistically low, and don’t jump on a “bargain basement” price for materials, either.

• You get what you pay for. The use of lesser-quality materials, no matter how insignificant it may seem, will only come back to haunt you in the end. Do not cut corners to save a buck; you will regret it.

• Never, ever, ever pay in full for work until it has been completed to your satisfaction.