Oasis Total Solutions
Home Improvement Anti-Scam Checklist (MA & CT)

Use this checklist before signing any contractor agreement.

1) Verify business identity
- Full legal business name
- Direct phone and email
- Person accountable for your project

2) Verify insurance and trade compliance
- Current insurance certificate(s)
- Required trade credentials for regulated work
- Clarity on permits/inspections when applicable

3) Require a written scope
- Tasks listed by room/area
- Materials and allowances documented
- Clear exclusions listed in writing
- Definition of what "done" means

4) Use safe payment milestones
- Reasonable initial deposit only
- Midpoint payments tied to completed scope
- Final payment after walkthrough and punch-list closeout

5) Control change orders
- No verbal change orders
- Every scope change written with cost/timeline impact
- Written approval before extra work starts

6) Watch for red flags
- Cash-only request for major work
- Urgency pressure to sign immediately
- No references for similar projects
- Vague one-line estimate

7) Document everything
- Save estimates, revisions, and messages
- Keep payment receipts
- Take before/after progress photos

Need a second opinion before signing?
Request a scope review at:
https://oasistotalsolutions.com/request-a-quote/