Directory FAQ
Answers to your most common questions about finding contractors and understanding our directory service.
Common Questions
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Who manages this directory?
The Baseboard Group, a property management company with years of experience across residential, commercial, and healthcare properties. We built this directory because we were frustrated finding reliable contractors and wanted to share what we have learned.
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Is my information safe if I contact a contractor through this directory?
Contractors listed here are responsible for their own communications. We recommend treating initial inquiries the same way you would if you found them through any other source. Verify licensing and insurance independently, and never share sensitive property information until you have confirmed you are working with a legitimate business.
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How often is the directory updated?
We regularly review and update our listings based on feedback and new information. If you have had an experience with a contractor that other property managers should know about, we encourage you to reach out and share it.
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Can I list my business in this directory?
We are currently building our contractor network. If you are a qualified contractor or provider, get in touch with us through our contact page, and we will evaluate your business for inclusion.
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Why are some contractors listed with more information than others?
The depth of information reflects what we have been able to verify and what contractors have chosen to share. A shorter listing does not indicate lower quality, only that we have less documented information available.
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What should I do if a contractor gives me a quote that seems too low?
Ask questions. Request a detailed breakdown of labor and materials. Check references for similar projects. Sometimes a low bid reflects efficiency and experience. Sometimes it reflects cutting corners. The bid alone does not tell you which.
Questions We Hear Most
Property managers consistently ask us how to tell the difference between a contractor offering a good value and one who is underquoting the work to win the job and recover losses later through change orders. The honest answer is that you cannot tell entirely without experience or references from other property managers who have worked with that contractor.
A contractor who admits uncertainty about a project scope or timeline is often more trustworthy than one who provides a flat estimate without visiting the site.
We recommend always asking for multiple bids, checking references for work similar to yours, and verifying that your chosen contractor has proper licensing and liability insurance. These steps take time but save money in the long run.
Before You Sign a Contract
Verify that your contractor is licensed and insured in your state. Ask for references from similar projects completed in the past three years. Request a detailed written estimate that breaks down labor, materials, and timeline. Confirm warranty coverage in writing. Discuss what happens if the project runs over timeline or budget. Walk through the work site with the contractor to ensure you are both discussing the same scope. None of these steps guarantees a perfect project, but they significantly reduce the risk of surprises.
Working Through a Project
Once you have chosen a contractor and signed a contract, staying engaged throughout the project prevents problems from accumulating. Visit the site regularly. Ask questions if you notice something unexpected. Keep copies of all communications. Document any issues in real time rather than waiting until the end of the project to raise concerns.
