When you’re a contractor, you end up interacting with people who have all different ways of being. Some you’ll like, some you won’t – but some should send you running in the opposite direction.
One of the best ways to prevent construction disputes with clients is to start to pay attention to the “red flags” that a potential customer will become a problem. Once you spot a few, you can either decline the job or try to build contingency plans into your contract. Some of the biggest red flags include:
Unrealistic expectations
Some clients have champagne dreams on a beer budget, while others are completely irrational about timelines. Both can be a problem. So, too, is the client that just doesn’t know what they actually want – and seems to think that you should magically provide the answers. The odds are high that all three won’t be happy with anything you do.
Poor boundaries
Some clients are naturally laid back, while others are anxious. The ones you want to avoid, however, are the ones that seem to equate you with their personal servant. If they don’t respect your boundaries or are verbally abusive, you can expect them to continue to try to bully you, possibly through lawsuits.
Dismissive or devaluing
When a potential client tells you that they’ve been cheated by every contractor they’ve had, your prices are clearly too high or that they don’t want to sign a contract, don’t fool yourself into believing that they’ll change their mind once they see your work. They’ve already decided you aren’t worth what you’re charging.
Construction disputes happen all the time, and it’s not possible to avoid them all. You may be able to limit them, however, with experienced legal guidance, good contracts and by being a little selective about your clientele.
