An unfortunate truth in the home improvement business is that homeowners are getting ripped off by fly-by-night "contractors".

We, at Morse Home Improvement, want to do everything in our power to keep that from happening.  The best thing that you can do to protect yourself is educate yourself about the companies, products, and services that you are considering.

Here are a few ideas that may help you.

1.  Call the Better Business Bureau to  find out about the companies that you are considering before you allow them to come to your home.  B.B.B. phone # 1-314-645-3300 (have the 10 digit phone of the companies that you're checking ready when you call.)

2.  Check (call and drive by) references given to you by the company.  Don't assume the company is O.K. just because they gave you references.  More than likely, the company knows who is a happy customer and who is not.  It's doubtful they will give a name and number of a dissatisfied customer.  Ask to choose your own references from their customer list.  A company with nothing to hide will be happy to allow this.

3.  Do not sign a contract that is vague or hard for you to understand, the contract should be somewhat specific as to the products and services to be rendered.  The contract should include a workmanship warranty, the company name, address and phone number.  Be leary of P.O. boxes without a physical address.

4.  Do not allow yourself to be tricked or pressured into signing a contract.  If they want you to sign a contract before you are comfortable with it,  then they don't have your best interest in mind.  If they do not have your best interest in mind, do you want them working on your home?

5.  Do not fall for the "frills" that a salesman may show you about thier product.  Check it out!!  Do a little research.  In most instances the frills of a product are exaggerated to draw your attention away from other inferior features of the product.

6.  It's rarely best to go with the lowest bidder.  YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR.  The products and the labor are just a part of what you pay for when you hire a contractor.  Workmans comp. insurance, liability insurance, proper liscencing, office buildings, warehouse space for storing your products until installation, record keeping, etc.  are all important factors in giving you the very best in service.  Low bidders usually fall short in at least one of these areas, which leaves you vulnerable to law suites, damaged or weathered products.  If they work out of their house, you may have to leave messages with an answering service or on a machine and hope that they return your call.  If the record keeping system is non existant, you may not be able to match, repair or replace the products years later.  It can cost you more money tomorrow, by trying to save money today.  Be Smart, Be Careful and Be Happy.

For more information or ideas on how to protect yourself contact us at (618) 465-0505.  Remember, it is your home and your money.  Only you can make sure that you hire the right company for the job.