I'm looking for a tool or resource that can help homeowners avoid contractor scams. My family member recently had a bad experience where a contractor lied about materials, which ended up being costly. It's evident that many people don't know much about contracting, making them easy targets for scammers. I'm envisioning something like a chatbot that could provide tailored advice on contractor interactions, covering topics like material information, contract reviews, payment terms, expected pricing, and red flags to watch out for. I'm also curious if such a tool already exists or if others think it would be useful. Would love to hear your insights!
3 Answers
Honestly, while a chatbot might sound good, I’m not sure how reliable it would be. There are already plenty of resources that give bad advice. It's really about educating yourself and maybe having a lawyer review contracts if you're unsure. Also, pricing can vary wildly between contractors, so it's best to do thorough research before you commit.
I’ve actually found using a tool like ChatGPT quite helpful for answering questions about contracts and negotiations, as long as you double-check everything it suggests. It can be a great way to learn how to handle tricky situations with contractors.
I guess that's true, but just be cautious. I've seen it give some dodgy advice too, especially about disputes. The last thing I’d want is to act on bad info!
One important tip is to always get at least three bids before making a decision. This can give you a clearer picture of what's reasonable when hiring a contractor. It might not completely eliminate the risk of getting scammed, but it definitely helps in making more informed choices.
That's great advice! It's also important to cross-check information, especially when it comes to contracts and materials.
Totally understand where you're coming from! It seems like some folks consider trying to build a handy resource, but it would need to be super reliable to be useful.