Hiring someone to fix a leak, rewire a room or build a wall is a big decision. A good tradesperson saves you time and money. The wrong one can cost you twice: once for the bad job, and once to repair it. Before you agree on anything, ask these seven questions.
1. Can you show me photos of similar work?
A serious professional is proud of past jobs and keeps photos on their phone or on their profile. Ask to see work that looks like yours: the same kind of bathroom, the same type of wall, the same brand of air conditioner.
2. Can I talk to a previous client?
Reviews help, and so does a quick call to someone who hired them recently. Ask that person if the work was finished on time, if the price changed, and if they would hire the same person again.
3. Can you come and see the job before giving a price?
For anything bigger than a small repair, a price given over the phone is a guess. A visit lets the professional see the real problem, measure, and list the materials. Be wary of anyone who refuses to look but promises a very low price.
4. What exactly is included in the price?
Ask for a written quote, even a simple message on WhatsApp. It should say what work will be done, who buys the materials, how many days it will take and what happens if there is a problem. Most disputes start with a price that was never written down.
5. How do you want to be paid?
A deposit for materials is normal on larger jobs. Paying everything before the work starts is not. Agree on the steps in advance, pay by mobile money when you can so you keep a record, and never share your mobile money PIN or card details.
6. Is the work guaranteed?
Ask what happens if the leak comes back next week or the new socket stops working. A good professional will come back to fix their own mistakes. Agree on how long that guarantee lasts.
7. When can you start, and when will you finish?
Dates matter, especially before the rainy season or an event. Ask for a start date and an end date, and how the professional will keep you informed if something delays the work.
Signs to be careful
- They ask for full payment before starting.
- They refuse to give a price in writing.
- They cannot show any past work or any client contact.
- They push you to decide immediately.
- The price is far below every other quote.
Find a professional on Kinify Services
On Kinify Services, you can compare professionals by trade and commune, read reviews from real clients, message them before you decide and look for the Verified badge, given only after we check their documents.
