Commissioning a service provider, do's and dont's

I receive regular calls from people saying they have commissioned a service provider to build their ultimate vehicle, but the project is taking to long, they not receiving enough communication, they think the provider has stolen from them, they not sure if the work is getting done properly... ect ect

I don't like doing this type of work as its generally a mess and dealing with a variety of people who are either financially over extended and robbing Peter to pay Paul, or the work was not done correctly, however, to the builder thats perfectly acceptable work, that he wants to get paid for. Generally the paperwork or contract is not done correctly between builder and client, with loads of he said she said type of drama.

Fortunately I was in that same situation a few years back when I lost a business and pulled all the tricks to get through another day. So I understand it from both parties and those lessons have taught me a great deal with dealing in situations like this.

If I can offer a little advise for people looking to commission a service provider for something.

First thing, super important, vet the company and owner first, make sure they have a good reputation. Speak to numerous people, not just one. This is why I started the Facebook group page Vintage / Classic vehicles SERVICES group page IE FABRICATORS, SHOPS.., so service providers could market themselves and you as a potential client, have all your options on one page, on top of that, you can ask others how their dealings were with that particular service provider.

See link for reference https://www.facebook.com/groups/1703948942998485/

Second, go to their premises and see how they work, is the workshop messy or is it neat. It will give you an insight as to how they will work on your vehicle. Do they have loads of staff or a few, are all the staff working? Or are some sitting around bored, showing you there is bad management. Ask questions about other products in the shop, try ascertain how long they've being there for, is there risk of that happening to you?

Third, make sure your documentation is correct and that as much detail is stipulated on the contract. Timelines, what happens if timelines are not met, costs, company details, how the payment plan will be scheduled... Even if you draw up your own binding document and get the service provider to sign it. It will help incase anything goes wrong and it goes to court.

Each point iv'e mentioned above, individually, won't help you, but together they offer you a clarity, a mixture of gut feel and due diligence, spiritual and hardcopy.

hope you enjoyed the read, fell free to send us your feedback...

Limiting your risk a best as you can.