I was driving along today and came across this surprising scene.
It made me think back to my previous discussions of required construction documents. Also, find out if the contractor has liability insurance.
What does the contractors policy cover? What does the policy exclude? Also, proof of insurance would be ideal too. When I worked as a contractor, my insurance company prepared a letter that I could give clients as proof of insurance.
Some contractors get nervous if you ask for their insurance information but reputable insured ones won’t. Imagine if this home owner had none of the documents I discussed. The contractor could try to “disappear” and the home owner that hired him would be responsible for the removal and replacement of both porches, all damages, possible fines for negligence, and a sour relationship with the neighbour. 