In the spring and summer, more people are looking to have home improvement work done. Getting the right contractor requires a little work.
While most home improvement contractors are trustworthy, the Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to carefully research the contractors they're considering before hiring someone, signing a contract or to making an advance payment.
The Bureau's Catlin Driscol says if someone approaches you at home, check them out.
"Verify registration is a big thing too, so make sure you check with the Attorney General's office, that you have the company's name, their contact information and that it's valid and checks out."
Driscoll says sometimes contractors who are not local, may ask for a higher deposit than they're legally able to ask for.
"They may ask for payments to be made all in cash, claim that a contract isn't necessary, not put any of the verbal details in writing," she said.
Other recommendations from the BBB: Don't pay in full in advance. Whenever possible, pay by credit card because you have some recourse. Get receipts.
The BBB says homeowners shouldn't feel pressured to make a deal on the spot, recommends getting at least three bids before making a financial commitment and checking with the Bureau to see a contractor's complaint history and their rating.