IF IT’S TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE…
It Probably Is!
Last spring we ran an article in our newsletter about construction estimates that seem too good to be true. We warned everyone to watch out! What was true in 2008 still applies and bears repeating in 2009.
Stephanie Belton of Fireplace Plus and Blaze is a subcontractor that has been involved in our projects for over 15 years. She called us regarding our article when it came out and had the following to say. “ I wish all contractors and subcontractors would be as honest as you are. It is a travesty what is happening in the industry, with sub-standard work and unethical contractors hiding behind low bids. I am proud of the work you guys all do, and am glad to have known you for so long.”
Thank you, Stephanie! We appreciate your support.
When receiving a bid on any job, there are many variables you have to consider. Asking questions of past customers and referrals is one way to learn if ultra-low bids are a foil for sub-standard work.
Here are a few questions you should ask before you sign on the dotted line with any contractor:
- How long has the contractor been in business?
- Is the contractor licensed and bonded?
- What sub-contractors does the contractor work with? How long have they been in business?
- When problems arise – and in every job there is the unexpected! – is the contractor easy for the client to work with to fix them?
- Does the contractor stand behind his/her work?
- Does the contractor live up to his estimate or are there unexpected extras that are tacked on after the fact?
- Does the contractor complete the job in the time expected?
At G.L. Perry, we stand behind our estimates. Our prices reflect the quality of our work, the quality of our materials and the prices of our subcontractors. We also work with other subs and tradesmen that have been in the business for many years. For example, we can’t depend on the work of a tradesman that might go out of business in the fifth month of a six-month project!! We also respect the honest bids of our subcontractors who understand that continuously under-pricing projects will only sound the death knell for their company over time. (Yes, Jerry uses the phrase “death knell” all the time!)
Don’t be fooled by the estimate that seems too good to be true. In the end, the smart consumer understands that you get exactly what you pay for!
G.L. Perry Construction Included in Silicon Valley Business Journal
List of Top 25 Residential Contractors
At G.L. Perry, we operate much like a family. Some of our employees have been with us since we started doing business more than 30 years ago! The dedication they show to the company and to our customers can be seen in the number of referrals and repeat business we get from our clients. And now it can also be seen in print!
In the April 3, 2009, edition of The Silicon Valley Business Journal there was a tidbit of news that we can’t help bragging about, just a little. We were selected as one of the top 25 residential contractors in Silicon Valley / San Jose!
Thank you to all our employees and to all our customers. We may be one of the top 25 contractors, but to us, you are all Number 1!
