Financial Telegraph

Today’s lifestyles demand making the most of every minute of the day. Cell phones, fast food, and Internet banking have become commonplace in almost every household.

Not surprisingly, Internet dating and matchmaking web sites have become phenomenally popular as well. Last month alone, over 3 million dating/matchmaking searches were done by people seeking Mr. or Mrs. Right. Online Dating Magazine estimates Internet dating results in more than 120,000 marriages annually.

Another kind of Internet matchmaking service has also become highly popular. One for homeowners on a quest to find reputable contractors for remodeling, renovation, home repair, and new construction purposes.

As with any other resource, some are more dependable than others. In response to fierce competition, and enticement to attract more consumers, a growing number of service providers advertise prescreened contractors.

But does prescreening offer the consumer protection, or create risk hazards? What pitfalls might be involved when consumers fail to follow up with a screening process of their own?

Matchmaking Services with Prescreened Service Providers; Beware of Risks Involved

This popular contractor matching service maintains an extensive database of prescreened contractors.”

“Our free contractor referral service provides verified US insured and licensed contractors.”

“We prescreen all contractors before we choose to partner with them…a contractor must provide proof of insurance and licensing…and must also submit a solid list of previous customer references.”

Such are the assertions made by 3 different consumer-to-contractor matchmaking services that prescreen member service providers.

Sounds good; until one begins considering possible drawbacks. Or what dangers could be lurking behind such carefully worded sales pitches.

The first area of concern is that consumers can be lulled into a false sense of security by this type matchmaking service. Putting them at risk for hiring a contractor based upon old, outdated information.

Contractor proof of insurance, licensing, and other credentials that checked out even just a few short weeks prior could no longer be valid. And references offered at the time of membership, obsolete and no longer reflective of the contractor’s workmanship. In addition, any number of personal problems or health complications might have arisen that could affect the work quality or integrity of services.

The second area of concern is the screening process itself:

Filed under: Internet Banking