Always trust a professional to do your bathroom renovation.At Beautiful baths our Installers are often called to rescue customers who have fallen victim to an underground contractor. In this terrible situation,the so -called installers (usually doing business from their trucks with a cel phone , without credentials or a business address provide their services on a cash-only, no-paperwork basis. While the initial price may seem like a bargain, the stress and additional expenses of a poorly installed job far outweigh any apparent savings.
Paying strictly in cash with no written agreement can pose a number of significant risks to homeowners. According to a recent report prepared for the Ontario Home Builders’ Association (OHBA), these include:The contractor may charge fees for work the homeowner didn’t agree to.
The homeowner has no means to back up his/her claims in court should a dispute arise after the work is completed.
The contractor may not be insured properly, which means his insurance policy might not cover damage to the home – or that of a neighbor.
The contractor may not follow building codes or municipal regulations.
The homeowner will be responsible for paying any additional costs necessary to bring the equipment installation up to the correct standards.
If there is an injury on the job, the homeowner could be held personally liable for medical or rehabilitation costs.
According to OHBA policy and communications manager Norma Kimmins in the Hamilton Spectator, January 18, 2011, “The consequences of paying cash under-the-table can be dire for homeowners. Consumers often do not have any legal recourse and could be subject to significant liability if an accident happens within the home. Illegal renovations introduce health and safety risks to construction workers and the homeowners who hire them.”