Dear Customer,

As a Merchant marine Officer, I've spent a lot of time away from my home and family — and I've learned first-hand how difficult it can be to find quality home service and professionals in general. When you're pressed for time and local resources it essential to have a reliable company that provid great service at competitive price. What's more, I've been reminded just how important it is to ensure that the professional (pros) you hire are not only qualified, but also vetted. It's the reason I signed on with Richi's List, both as a faithful user and as the leader of our Customer Care Department.

At Richi's List, we're dedicated to connecting you with quality service professionals to help with your home or life projects — and we use an extensive screening process to ensure that every business in our network is reputable. Of course, it's always a good idea to perform your own due diligence when it comes to hiring home service professionals. So, I'm pleased to offer a few time-tested tips to help you further protect yourself and choose the best pro to get the job done right:

• Always confirm credentials: Ask to see a copy of the professional's trade license to verify that it's current and in compliance with any applicable state and local-level requirements. Also, be sure to verify that the pro is appropriately insured and bonded. Read more about what Richi's List checks.

• Pay with a paper trail: Pay service professionals with a credit card or check, or cash, and pay only the company referred to you by Richi's List, not a single individual. Don't make large deposits or upfront payments. And if you pay for supplies, be sure to get a receipt and have them delivered directly to your home. Read more about arranging payments.

• Get the proper permits: Verify that any pro you hire will obtain the proper permits required for your project. Also, ensure that they're well-versed in any applicable state and local regulations. Read more about permits and regulations.

• Do your research: Before you hire a contractor, be sure to get multiple bids for your project. Also, read ratings and reviews on Richi's List to see what other homeowners have had to say about a pro work. Read more about hiring a reputable contractor.

• Get everything in writing: Always insist on a formal contract signed by both parties, and ensure that it states exactly what's included in the scope of work for your project. Read more about signing a contract.

• Uphold our core values: Always ensure that you are following the Richi's List Code of Conduct by following these core values: respectful, fairness, professional, honest, reliable, and be inclusive. Read more about our Code of Conduct.

We've built the Richi's List network to simplify finding qualified home service pros. That said, if you ever question the qualifications or standing of a Richi's List pro, please contact us so that we can investigate as soon as possible. Also, please know that we're here to help resolve disputes should you run into troubles with any business you hire through Richi's List.

We're honored to be your partner in home and life improvement, and we look forward to helping you find trusted pros and cost information to keep your home in tip-top shape.

Kind regards,

Richard