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Don’t give cheaters a chance–Hire contractors who’ll give you a written contract!

Learn more at cra.gc.ca/undergroundeconomy

Are "cash" contractors stealing your business?

Report the names of suspected tax cheaters–without giving yours–to the Canada Revenue Agency at cra.gc.ca/leads.

Step 1: Get referrals
Ask people you trust to refer you to great contractors. Check with you local Better Business Bureau or provincial or territorial consumer protection agencies to see if they have unresolved complaints.

Step 2: Do interviews
Start with phone interviews and then meet face-to-face with promising candidates.

Step 3: Do background checks
Ask for, and call, customer references. Always ask contraction for Proof of Business Liability Insurance and Workers’ Compensation coverage.

Step 4: Review quotes
Ask at least three contractors for quotes detailing the full costs and a schedule of payments. Other than a small deposit, never pay upfront for work that has not been done. Also, be wary of bids that seem to loo, as they might signal compromises on quality or safety.

Step 5: Get it in writing
Without a signed contract, a detailed warranty and a receipt for all funds paid, you’ll have no protection against shoddy work, cost overruns, or lawsuits from injured workers.

For a complete guide on the right way to find and hire a contractor, visit: http://www.hiringacontractor.com