Web site Allows Consumers to Grade Contractors

FM 100's Jill Atwood ReportingIs a home improvement project in your near future? Or maybe you just need a good plumber. Now the hard part -- are they reputable, or will you end up feeling ripped off? Finding the right company for the job can be a job in itself.

In today's "Smart Woman" Jill Atwood tells us about a new online list to help you maintain that bottom line.

It's called Angie's list, and on it are thousands of consumer ratings giving you the real scoop on local contractors. Salt Lake City went online in early June.

Angie Hicks, Angie's List: "You can go on the list and read individual reports from consumers who have actually used the companies, where you can actually gained insight people that have worked on houses that are similar price, as well as how to work with the company."

Every month consumers share their experiences and companies are added with a grade from A to F. That's why it's important to check the list before you hire somebody. Nationally, home warranty companies seem to repeatedly get the worst grades.

Angie Hicks: "I think the thing about home warranties is that a lot of times people expect it to cover something that it doesn't and I think that's where they tend to get graded lower on value. The key to home warranties is make sure you read the details make sure you really understand what's covered and what's not covered."

Whether it's a planned project or an emergency fix, Hicks reminds consumers of a few basic things to cover before work begins:

1. Get more than one estimate, but don't automatically go with the lowest price.
2. Make sure you know what's in the contract before you sign it.
3. Ask for references and check them.
4. Expect to pay a deposit but withhold final payment until the job is done to your satisfaction.
5. Communicate with your contractor; let them know right away if you have problems or concerns. So far in the Salt Lake City area, there is information on close to 2000 companies.

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