1️⃣ Taking Huge Deposits Up Front… Then Disappearing
Some contractors demand 50% or more before work even begins, then vanish or keep pushing your start date.
How to protect yourself:
- Never pay large deposits without a clear, written schedule.
- Use milestone-based payments tied to real progress.
How HousePro helps:
We use fair, milestone-based payments and stay fully accountable from the first day until the last nail is driven.
2️⃣ Lowball Bids Followed by Surprise Change Orders
It's a classic bait-and-switch: give the cheapest estimate to win the job, then pile on extra charges once demolition begins.
How to protect yourself:
- Demand an itemized estimate for labor and materials.
- Ask how changes will be handled if the scope shifts.
How HousePro helps:
Our estimates are transparent and powered by smart technology. You'll know exactly what materials and labor cost before you commit.
3️⃣ Working Without Proper Licensing or Insurance
An unlicensed or uninsured contractor might be cheaper — until an accident happens. Then you, the homeowner, can be liable.
How to protect yourself:
- Verify state licensing and liability/workers' comp insurance.
- Ask for certificates, not just verbal assurances.
How HousePro helps:
We’re a fully licensed and insured general contractor. Every crew on your project works under our coverage and compliance.
4️⃣ Walking Off the Job Mid-Project
Some contractors juggle too many jobs, run into cash-flow issues, or just disappear when things get tough.
How to protect yourself:
- Use a written contract with timelines and payment milestones.
- Keep a paper trail of all communication.
How HousePro helps:
We manage your project start to finish with our own team and dedicated project managers. We don’t leave jobs hanging.
5️⃣ Swapping High-Quality Materials for Cheap Substitutes
A bid may list premium products — but once you're not watching, they install something cheaper.
How to protect yourself:
- Get all material specs in writing.
- Inspect shipments and work before paying each draw.
How HousePro helps:
We spec materials clearly, source directly, and keep homeowners informed so you get what you paid for.
6️⃣ Ghosting When You Need Answers
Some contractors are great — until you sign. Then calls go unanswered, schedules slip, and updates vanish.
How to protect yourself:
- Make communication expectations clear in writing.
- Choose companies with dedicated support, not just a one-person crew.
How HousePro helps:
We have a full-time support team so you're never left wondering what's happening with your project.
7️⃣ No Written Contract or Warranty
"Handshake deals" can leave you helpless if something goes wrong.
How to protect yourself:
- Always insist on a detailed written agreement.
- Check what warranty (if any) you'll have after completion.
How HousePro helps:
Every HousePro project includes a clear scope of work, timeline, and quality guarantee.
🚀 Why South Jersey Homeowners Choose HousePro
We created HousePro because South Jersey homeowners deserve speed, transparency, and protection—whether you need bathroom remodeling, kitchen renovations, or roofing services:
- Fast estimates: We're often on site the next day.
- Fair pricing: Our technology keeps bids accurate and transparent.
- Full support: A real team answers your calls and keeps projects on track.
- Guaranteed quality: Vetted crews, clear contracts, and no shady surprises.
Learn more about why South Jersey homeowners trust HousePro →