When free is free .... and when it's not

We believe in giving back to the community. Community clean ups, painting projects, supplying tools and experience, etc.

We were recently asked to help out with some work on a renovation at the Baltimore Child Abuse Center (BCAC). Along with some of the Ravens players and a lot of other volunteers, CertaPro joined in to lend a helping hand.



I mention this not for any credit or attention, but to bring up a troubling trend.

A sign of the times.

It's the 'free' services offered by less than honest contractors.

When you are looking at multiple bids for work, and you should, beware of the contractor who offers a deal too good to be true. When he starts offering 'free' labor, or 'free' materials, ask him why he's in business.

Contractors giving away their time and materials simply cannot deliver safely, legally, and with good quality. The games contractors play to cut corners include not allowing for the proper labor hours (ask to inspect the work before continuing), paying their labor under the table (meaning you are not covered by workers comp if someone gets hurt - don't risk your house for a cheap job), letting the general liability lapse (make sure you get a certificate with your name listed as additionally insured - it doesn't cost anything and if your contractor balks, you know he's playing you), and using inferior products (ask to see receipts with your last name as the project name).

Recently, a customer went with another contractor who offered 'free' materials and labor. Wow! 12 gallons of paint - 'free!' 50 hours of labor - 'free!' Really? I must say, he's either very generous or he'll be out of business very soon. Maybe I should hire him for 'free'.

Would you give 50 hours of your time to someone other than a charity? ... I don't think so.

We offer free labor, tools and experience, but only to those truly in need. That's free.

The contractor that offers you 'free' items to win a job ... that's not.