Avoid remodelers at all costs when:

• cannot verify credentials

• salesperson tries to pressure signing contract

• you will be given a "special low rate" because your home will be used for advertising purposes

• special price only available today

• no references

• no pictures of past projects

• information out-of-date/ no longer valid

• asked to pay entire job in advance/ pay cash to salesperson

• cannot find company in telephone book/ not listed with Better Business Bureau

• does not offer, inform or extend notice of right to cancel contract within 3 days

In addition, be cautious when:

• you are given vague/ reluctant answers

• contractor exhibits poor communication skills/ descriptive powers

• contractor not accessible

• questions not answered to your satisfaction

• contractor impatient/ doesn't listen

• only work addressed, instead of homeowner needs