Hiring a tradesperson or service provider: good habits that protect you

Building work, moving, cleaning, repairs, hairdressing at home, private lessons, IT help: we often hire someone found through an ad or a recommendation. Most providers are honest, but a few simple checks help you avoid bad surprises and start on a clear footing.

1. Define what you need

Before contacting anyone, describe exactly what you want: the type of work, sizes or quantities, when you need it done and an approximate budget. Photos help a professional understand the job. The clearer your request, the easier it is to compare quotes.

If you are not sure exactly what is needed — a leak or an electrical fault, for example — say so and ask the professional to diagnose the problem first. Describing the symptoms clearly (when it happens, what you have already tried) helps them prepare and estimate the time needed.

2. Check who you are dealing with

• SIRET number: a registered business has an identification number. You can check it for free in the official business directory (annuaire-entreprises.data.gouv.fr): name, address, declared activity and creation date.
• Matching activity: the declared activity should match the work you need.
• Insurance: for construction work, ten-year liability insurance (garantie décennale) is compulsory — ask for the certificate. Professional liability insurance is also a good sign.
• Qualifications: for some energy-saving renovation work, public grants require a professional with a recognised label (RGE).
• References: ask for examples of previous work or contacts of past customers.

3. Ask for a written quote

A detailed quote (devis) protects both sides, and for many kinds of work and services it is compulsory before the job starts. A good quote shows:

• the full identity of the business;
• a precise description of the work and materials;
• the price of each item and the total before and after tax;
• timescales and how long the quote is valid;
• payment terms.

If possible, get two or three quotes, and do not choose on price alone: a very low quote can mean rushed work or unexpected extras. Signing a quote means accepting it, so read it first.

4. Organise payment

Paying a deposit when ordering is common, especially when materials must be bought. Paying the full amount before work starts, however, is risky. Prefer staged payments linked to progress, traceable methods (transfer, cheque, card) and always ask for an invoice at the end. Be wary of anyone who refuses to give an invoice or only accepts cash.

Some home services (cleaning, childcare, tutoring, light gardening…) may give access to a tax benefit when provided by a registered organisation or declared employee. Details are on service-public.fr.

5. During and after the job

Stay reachable, follow progress and put any change requested along the way in writing, with its cost. At the end, check the work before paying the balance. For building work, the handover (réception des travaux) can be recorded in writing, with any reservations noted.

6. The most common scams

• Fake emergency call-outs: a locksmith or plumber found in a hurry quotes a low price, then charges a huge amount. Keep the details of a trusted professional in advance and always ask for a quote before work begins.
• Pushy doorstep selling: for a contract signed at home, a cooling-off period generally applies. Do not give in to pressure and do not pay on the spot.
• The vanishing deposit: a provider who becomes unreachable after taking a large deposit. Check the business before paying and keep the deposit reasonable.

Read more in How to avoid scams on classified ads.

7. Offering your services?

A clear ad builds trust: your trade, the area you cover, your availability, photos of past work and how to contact you. Say whether you are registered and provide quotes and invoices — it is a real selling point. See also how to write a good classified ad.

Frequently asked questions

Is a quote always free?

Often, but not always. When a quote requires travel or a detailed study, the professional may charge for it — provided they tell you before preparing it. Ask at first contact to avoid surprises.

What if the work is badly done?

First contact the professional in writing, describe the problems precisely with photos, and give them a reasonable deadline to fix them. If the disagreement continues, professionals must give you free access to a consumer mediator. Building work also comes with specific legal guarantees.

Can I pay a professional in cash?

French law limits cash payments to professionals. Above the limit, a traceable payment method is required. In all cases, ask for an invoice: it is your proof in a dispute or for a guarantee.

In short

A clear request, a checked professional, a written quote, staged payment and an invoice: these five habits prevent most disputes.

Find a provider in the Services section of TamilMarket, or post an ad to offer your own services.