After citing 9 people in Reno and Carson City in just two-days, the Nevada State Contractors Board is issuing a warning of its own - don't hire a contractor until you check their credentials.
The NCSB says before you get any house work done -- whether it's plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning or remodeling work -- you need to get the contractors license number and check it online.
The Contractors Board also recommends getting past work references - making sure you have a written contract and understand what's in it before you sign and don't make a final payment until the work is done.
NSCB advises homeowners utilizing online sources, such as Craigslist, to search for advertisements placed by contractors to perform various types of work to do so with caution.
It is important homeowners remember:
- Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC services require a licensed contractor in the State of Nevada– these services cannot be performed by a "handyman";
- All advertisements for work requiring a contractor's license must have a contractor's license number posted on the advertisement;
- Homeowners who contract with unlicensed contractors are not eligible for the Residential Recovery Fund;
- Contracts made with an unlicensed contractor are not recognized/valid in the State of Nevada; and
- Always verify the contractor's license number on NSCB's website at www.nscb.nv.gov
"Contracting without a contractor's license is a serious offense, which ultimately increases a homeowner's risk and liability when having work performed on their home," said Margi A. Grein, NSCB executive officer. "The opportunity to team up with other states to educate consumers on ways to protect themselves and demonstrate a unified zero-tolerance stance on the issue is invaluable and one that we hope to initiate again in the future."
NSCB encourages consumers looking for contractors to perform work to follow these ten tips:
- Only hire licensed contractors.
- Check the contractor's license number by utilizing our Online Contractor Search at www.nscb.nv.gov
- Get three references and review past work.
- Get at least three bids.
- Get a written contract and do not sign anything until you completely understand the terms.
- For pool contracts, pay 10% down or $1,000 - whichever is less, if a deposit is required.
- Don't let payments get ahead of the work. Keep a record of all payments.
- Don't make a final payment until you are satisfied with the job.
- Don't pay cash.
- Keep a job file of all papers relating to your project.
