S/O paying contractors - deposits?

[IIOY]

Is there ever a time when it is appropriate to pay a deposit? We had about $4500 worth of work done last year on our roof and to install a new front patio, and the contractor wanted a deposit. I paid it and we had a good experience with the contractor (fortunately) but I'm wondering how to handle something like this going forward. He had to buy a bunch of materials in advance of doing the work. Does this make a difference?

[sratsey]

Feb 22, 2013 16:25:31 GMT -5 IIOY said:

Is there ever a time when it is appropriate to pay a deposit? We had about $4500 worth of work done last year on our roof and to install a new front patio, and the contractor wanted a deposit. I paid it and we had a good experience with the contractor (fortunately) but I'm wondering how to handle something like this going forward. He had to buy a bunch of materials in advance of doing the work. Does this make a difference?

I'm having my island built right now. I had to pay a 33% deposit up front to cover materials and the remainder is due the day of installation.

[my4girls]

we had new hardwoods installed- we had to pay for the material ahead of time and the balance was due upon completion

[lys]

We have always had to have a deposit when having work done by a professional.  It is part of the contract after given  a written itemized estimate.  (usually 10-30% depending on total costs and kind of work being done).  The exception is our plumber (friend) who gives a verbal estimate and then just sneds us a bill when the job is completed.

[bunnymendelbaum]

I think they are standard, but neither of my contractors asked for them. The tile guy didnt because we already had all the materials. We were just paying for labor.

The drywall guy bought materials but still didnt ask for a deposit. He's not the most organized guy though. He told DH yesterday he doesn't remember what our quote included. I gave him a list, but I already threw out my copy!
Idk if he still has his copy. Either way I'm telling him it included painting the bathroom just because his guys made a big mess and I had to clean it up!

[starlily]

I think it's pretty standard. For repairs at my parents' house (wooden deck replacement, shower pan, etc.) the deposits have usually been around 10% of the estimate.

We're buying new construction and the deposit for options like the backsplash, extra tile coverage in the entryway, the patio, etc. is 75% of the cost.