What to do When a Job Goes South: How to Protect Yourself as a Flooring Installer

2018-02-28

Contractors, yours is often a thankless job. (So, before I write another word: Hats off, and thank you!) You work hard to please your customers, take care of your team, and put your best effort forward.

Yours are the boots on the ground. You are the ones applying the elbow grease to get our products installed – and without whom our coatings would never see the light of day on concrete floors and surfaces.

So why is it, then, that a quick Google search on "how to protect yourself as a contractor" turns up more of the opposite, like:

•   Tips to Protect Yourself from Bad Contractors
•   Contractor Scams to Avoid
•   Beware: Bad Behaviors in Your Flooring Contractor

When a job goes south, and it comes to the "blame game," the contractor is all too often the one left holding the bag. The question is, how can you prevent it?

1) Clearly define the scope of the work.

As a contractor, you know how easy it is for project scope to "creep" once work has begun, sneakily spiraling into a nightmare of added expense, time and labor. From unexpected findings as the project progresses (like more moisture in the concrete than expected) to last-minute requests added by the client, it is up to you to outline limits around what is, and isn't, included in your original project estimate.

During the bidding process, be clear and detailed as to what your estimate covers, from the exact square footage of the area to be coated, to an itemized list of the materials to be used, including additives, aggregates, colors, manufacturers, etc.

2) Don't skip the contract.

The bid covers every itemized detail. The contract binds agreement on those details between you and your client. "A thorough contract tells how the work will be done, when it will be done, what materials will be used, and how much it will cost," defines this Chino Valley Review article. "A contract does not need to contain product specs, but can refer to the contractor's attached, itemized bid."

The contract protects you as well as your client. Have your attorney review it to make sure it is sound and doesn't leave you exposed to risk.

3) Document everything.

Your bid is detailed and itemized. Your contract is clear and signed. Still, life happens. To prevent any later misunderstanding, keep track of any deviations from the project's expected progress, extenuating circumstances and potential liabilities – in writing.

For example, if a late selection on your client's part pushes back your purchasing lead time, or if inclement weather delays work, you'll want to make a note of that. Be meticulous. That way, if there's any question about your having met your side of the contract down the road, you can always pull your notes to see if the responsibility truly lies with you and your company… or was outside your control.

Protect yourself by choosing the best materials for the job. We can help with that. Click here to schedule a no-obligation call with one of our flooring experts.