FYI: PEACE OF MIND IS PRICELESS
Criminal Background Check, Commercial Liability Insurance and Trade References are a few items that you should be concerned about when hiring a firm. Following a few simple steps you can effectively protect yourself, your family and your property from falling victim to irresponsible contractors. In the following statements we will discuss steps that you can follow, questions you should ask and what you should look for.
Coastal Quality has background checks conducted on all employees prior to hiring and twice a year thereafter. Background checks are conducted by an unbiased party that specializes in these procedures. We feel that this should be the standard for all contractors in efforts to insure a safe environment for you & your family while services are rendered on your property. Ask your contractor if they require new hire and existing associates to comply with background checks.
When hiring a firm to conduct any service on your property, request a copy of their Commercial Liability Insurance form. State law requires that all contractors providing residential or commercial services to carry Liability Insurance for services preformed. The Commercial Liability Insurance form is identified as an Accord document. This document will display the insured name, insurance company and/or agent, limits of coverage and services covered by the policy. You should verify coverage dates, area of coverage, statues of policy and other information by contacting the insurance company and/or agent listed on the document, particularly if they are performing hazardous duties. Don’t relay solely on a commercial vehicle that advertises "Licensed and Insured".
Customer references are an excellent information source for you to collect pros and cons about your contractor. However, due to privacy issues and concerns, some customers are not willing to disclose their information to others in order to communicate their experience. Trade references can be attained by contacting commercial references. ie. commercial installation or maintenance accounts, local suppliers, (nursery, growers, subcontractors) local government volunteer activity.
