Things to look for in a contractor. - Certified Decontamination

Things to look for in a decontamination contractor.

1. Is the contractor doing business legally?

For Utah go to https://secure.utah.gov/bes/action/index Enter the business name to see if it is registered with the Department of Commerce.

2. Is the contractor certified and, if necessary, licensed.

For mth decontamination in Utah, go to http://www.superfund.utah.gov/docs/ContractorList.pdf. For mold, bacteria, or other microorganisms in Utah where the contractor will use a disinfectant, fungicide, antimicrobial or other chemical to kill or prevent a microorganism, go to http://webapp.ag.utah.gov/LicenseLookup/licenseList.jsp and check for a pesticide license and a certification to use pesticides in a home.

Note: The reason for these first two questions is that it is not reasonable to believe a person who does not obey some laws, is going to obey other laws or is going to obey your contract.

3. Does the contractor have insurance?

Liability insurance is important but don't forget workers compensation insurance. If the contractor does not have workers compensation insurance, the property owner can be forced to pay medical bills and for lost income even if the injured person owns the business.

4. Did the contractor provide you with a written estimate? Is it neat, written with correct spelling and grammar, and is it easy to understand?

Note: If a person is not educated enough to write, they may not be educated enough to decontaminate. When the contractor writes the decontamination report you wish to use later to convince a buyer or other person the property was decontaminated correctly, a report written poorly may not be believable.

5. Does the contractor guarantee their work?

Note: A contractor that does not intend to do a complete decontamination or is not confident in his work, is not likely to give you a guarantee. If he doesn’t trust his work, you shouldn't trust it either.

6. Did the contractor try to frighten you? This sometimes comes in the form of emphasis on the dangers at the property, stories of people who didn’t act quickly, and threats that the health department, police, or neighbors are likely to cause trouble.

7. Is the contractor pressuring you to sign a contract before you can learn enough to make an informed decision.

Note: I hear complaints about questions 6 and 7 all the time. People will pay more or make decisions in haste for something they fear. It is reasonable for you to gather information, consider all options and make an informed decision. A contractor that is patient and helpful, and is not pushy, is a contractor likely to do things that are in your best interest. Ideally, they will impress you with their honesty and knowledge.

8. Is the contractor a member of the Better Business Bureau.

Note: Contractors with lots of complaints and unhappy customers avoid organizations like the Better Business Bureau.