Damaged floors? Hiring a concrete repair service

Just as with any construction problem, when considering hiring a concrete repair service to fix a damaged floor, there are many things you need to keep in mind. Everyone knows someone who had a bad experience with a contractor who either didn't do the job right, charged way too much to do the job, didn't pay their subcontractors and the home or business owner now has a mechanics lien on their property, or some other horrible experience. Let me give you a few helpful hints in finding yourself a good contractor who won't take advantage of you and can guarantee his/her work.

There are several web sites that host licensed contractors such as contractor.com and 1800contractor.com. These sites are valuable because in order to subscribe, you need to be reputable, have a license and be insured. These contractors know their reputation is on the line and probably get a large amount of business from these sources and are probably a little more motivated to satisfy their customer.

However, this is not the only source of finding good contractors. You can open up any phone book and find a host of contractors who specialize in concrete repair. The trick is finding out if a contractor is licensed or not.

All states that license contractors and tradesmen keep lists of license holders. Contractor.com has a user-friendly link that will show you how to get in contact with your state's state licensing board. You can contact them to find out if a specific contractor has been licensed in your state. Most licenses do not travel state to state because requirements are different. If a contractor licensed in Florida is not licensed in California as well, they cannot bid in California on a project that requires a certain amount of work, usually anything more than a few hundred dollars worth unless they have filed for a license in California as well. If you have a problem with a licensed contractor or tradesman, the state licensing board can be a powerful ally in resolving issues.

Most states require license applicants to take a written examination on construction law, business organization and the skills of their occupation. Applicants may have to prove financial ability to operate a contracting business. Letters of reference from previous employers, customers, bankers, architects or engineers may be required. Many states also require proof of on-the-job experience.

Nearly all states have basic requirements for applicants. These requirements are very similar in all states:



• You need to be at least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent.


•  You need to be able to show proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency.


•  You need to provide documentation on any other occupational license you hold in that particular state.


•  You need to provide two passport-size photos.


•  You will be expected to show an explanation of any citations, violations or liens resulting from your construction work.


•  If you are a corporations doing business in any state, you must be registered with the Secretary of State.

Be aware that there are many knowledgeable contractors out there that for whatever reason do not have a license. However, if you get into a dispute with an unlicensed contractor or tradesman, you usually are in for a long, hard battle. Also note that, with the exception of plumbers and electricians, tradesmen paid by the hour usually don't need a license.

In addition to verifying the status of a contractors license, you will also want to be sure he/she is insured. All construction contractors need liability and workers' compensation coverage. Request a certificate of insurance from the contractor you select. Insurance carriers provide certificates showing policy limits and coverage dates. You should not expect to be charged to see a copy of these certificates.

In summary, there are many good contractors out there that will do a standup job on repairing your damaged floor. However, there are also many that will try to do the job with cheap materials, minimal work and/or overcharge labor. To reduce your chances of getting one of the latter, do your research. Ask for references and always make sure your contractor is licensed and insured.

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