Consumer Safety
While ServiceNearMe aims to provide consumers with a vast network of trusted professionals they can connect with, it is ultimately your responsibility as the consumer to do your own screening before hiring the right professional for the task.
Here are some tips to help you get started:
Review their Business Profile
Each business profile on ServiceNearMe gives you important information about the kind of services on offer and a quick glance at what you need to know. Check out their customer reviews and FAQ page to learn more about their services. A link to their website, contact details and opening times are included for your review.
Do Your Research
While the business profile provides a comprehensive overview of what to expect, you may want to do further research into the company on the internet to verify their credentials.
Discuss Your Needs
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with businesses by sending them a message using the contact form on their profile page or speaking to them on the phone. Discuss the details of your project before making your final decision and proceeding with the contract. Ask to see relevant samples of work or additional customer references.
Ask about Insurance, Permits and Licenses
Ensure the professional is fully insured and licensed to carry out the work and able to comply with current federal, state and local licensing requirements.
Get a Written Contract
Never rely on verbal agreements. Get everything in writing by requesting for a contract that clearly indicates the project time frame, payment plan and terms and conditions.
Keep a Record
Whether it’s an email or an invoice, it’s wise to keep a record of everything just in case you need to refer to them.
Payment on Projects
We recommend that consumers arrange for progressive payments on large projects. Be wary about releasing the full payment for an entire project upfront, particularly if it involves a huge sum of money. Ensure you have a receipt or record of every payment you make.
Business License vs. Occupational License
A business license simply means that the service provider is registered as a business. It is not a license for them to perform a particular kind of work, such as plumbing or electrical wiring.
You may want to verify that the professional has the appropriate occupational license by referring to online databases such as BRB Publications. Click on the links below to state government websites for information about licensing.
