Recognizing contractor red flags early can save your project and your budget. Here's how to identify problems and take corrective action before it's too late.
In Southern California's competitive construction market, choosing the wrong contractor can cost you tens of thousands of dollars and months of delays. Recognizing these warning signs early is crucial for protecting your investment.
"Our contractor stopped returning calls after we questioned why our kitchen remodel was three weeks behind schedule. When we finally reached him, he claimed the delays were 'normal' but couldn't explain why we weren't informed. We later discovered he had taken on too many projects and was juggling multiple jobs poorly."
- Homeowner in Manhattan Beach
Document all communication attempts. Send written requests for project updates and establish mandatory weekly progress meetings.
If communication doesn't improve within one week, consider bringing in a project manager or switching contractors. Poor communication rarely improves on its own.
For more insight into realistic project timelines, read our guide on ground-up build timelines in Southern California.
"Three months after our bathroom remodel was 'complete,' we noticed water damage in the ceiling below. Investigation revealed the contractor had skipped waterproofing behind the shower tile to save a day of work. The repair required tearing out the entire shower and cost us $12,000 plus three weeks of additional work."
Take photos and videos of all quality issues. Create a detailed punch list with specific locations and problems.
Provide written notice requiring all work to meet industry standards and contract specifications. Set deadlines for corrections.
Have another qualified contractor inspect questionable work. This provides leverage and documentation for disputes.
"Our contractor's initial bid was $85,000 for a room addition. By completion, we had paid $127,000 due to constant 'unexpected' costs. Later, we learned that a proper initial assessment would have identified most of these issues. The contractor had deliberately underbid to win the job."
Require detailed written explanations, photos of issues, and itemized cost breakdowns for all additional work.
Have another contractor assess whether additional work is truly necessary and if costs are reasonable.
Check what's covered in your original agreement. Many "extras" should have been included in the initial scope.
Visit cslb.ca.gov and search by license number or business name. Check status, expiration date, and any complaints or disciplinary actions.
Request certificates directly from the insurance company. Don't accept copies that could be outdated or fraudulent.
Check with your local building department to ensure all required permits have been pulled and are in good standing.
For guidance on selecting qualified contractors, read our comprehensive guide on top 5 questions to ask before hiring a contractor.
Check termination clauses, payment terms, and dispute resolution procedures. Understand your rights and obligations.
Compile photos, correspondence, receipts, and a timeline of issues. This documentation is crucial for disputes or legal action.
Send certified letter outlining specific problems and giving final opportunity to correct issues within reasonable timeframe.
Change locks, secure materials, and prevent unauthorized access. Take inventory of materials and tools on site.
For comprehensive guidance on contractor selection, see our detailed guide on questions to ask before hiring a contractor.
If you're experiencing contractor issues or need help rescuing a troubled project, our experienced team specializes in problem resolution and project completion. We've helped hundreds of Southern California homeowners get their projects back on track.