How to hire a contractor without getting scammed
A&B Improvement exists because we saw how easily good people get taken advantage of. So here's our honest advice — use it even if you never hire us.
- 01
Verify license & insurance
Ask for the PA Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) number and proof of insurance — and actually look it up. A real contractor will gladly show you.
- 02
Get everything in writing
A real quote lists the scope, the materials, and the price. "Just trust me" is a red flag.
- 03
Never pay big money up front
A small deposit is normal. Large up-front payments are how scammers disappear. Pay as the work gets done.
- 04
Make sure they're a real, local person
Look for a real address, real reviews, and photos of their actual jobs — not a gallery of stock photos that could be anyone's.
- 05
Watch for pressure and "today only" deals
Good contractors give you room to think. High-pressure, act-now tactics are a warning sign.
- 06
Read their Google reviews — and their replies
How a contractor responds to feedback tells you how they'll treat you.
- 07
Trust your gut
If something feels off, it probably is. There's always another contractor.
That's exactly how we operate — every single time.
Get an honest quote