A Deal’s a Deal

After you’ve agreed to the job and have signed on the dotted line, you have to hold up your end of things, too. This means … Clearing furniture and household items out of the way so your electrician can work.

• Keeping your children at a safe distance from the work activity.
• Controlling your pets.
• Providing access to your house, either with a key or by being home at the start of the workday.
• Understanding that your contractor and any crew will need access to a bathroom and somewhere to take their breaks.
• Paying your bill in a timely manner. Small contractors are especially dependent on regular cash flow, and you shouldn’t unnecessarily delay payment.

Being a good customer is just as important as being a good contractor—all good contractors have stories about customers from hell.