It may be too late to get your money back or get the contractor to do their job this time, but next time, be careful!

There are things you can do in advance to make sure you are hiring a reputable person. One thing to do is to arrange for a surety bond. While the state of Texas doesn’t require surety bonds for contractors, Harris County does. Getting a surety bond will be a good way to find out if the contracting business and the owner are reputable–a background check will be done of both, and a review of a credit report and company financial information will give you some idea whether to trust the business. Of course, it’s the contractor who pays for it.

What is a surety bond exactly?

It’s a legally binding contract stipulating that the business or person who purchases the bond (the contractor) will obey the laws involved and the terms of the contract. The insurance company guarantees the work will be done, even if the contractor doesn’t complete the job and the insurance company has to get someone to finish it.

A surety bond is a great way to ease your fears, and Koch Insurance Group is here to help you and your contractor facilitate the work you have in mind. Contact them for help.