Using a coworker's spouse as a contractor? Mixing work and non-work services?

[hostage]

My fiance and I are getting some quotes to have our bathroom remodel. I mentioned it to someone at work and they suggested that I use their spouse as they own a contractor business. I have used a different co-workers spouse as a realtor with great success. Though I guess it makes me feel wary if something goes wrong, how would it effect the work environment? I consider myself a very level headed person, though I am not one for drama.

I am getting a couple quotes from companies I looked up on Angie's list. The co-worker's husband is not on there, though his has only 4 people and is very small. Think I should get a quote or just ignore it?

Thanks in advance,

Hostage

 

[r.j.dawg]

Re: Using a coworker's spouse as a contractor? Mixing work and non-work services?

Can't hurt to get a quote, and ask for references at the same time. Go and have a look at some jobs he's done. All's fair in love and contracting.

 

[hostage]

Re: Using a coworker's spouse as a contractor? Mixing work and non-work services?

It seems odd calling random people asking them what they thought of such and such or asking to look at the job, etc.

 

[smatsinger]

Re: Using a coworker's spouse as a contractor? Mixing work and non-work services?

That's a reference. Generally, the individual would be aware and agree to be a reference, so they are aware of potential inquiries.

 

[halfmoa]

Re: Using a coworker's spouse as a contractor? Mixing work and non-work services?

Any time I've bought a used vehicle I see if I can get the previous owner's info from the owners manual or other papers left in the vehicle and call them. I let them know who I am and why I'm calling immediately (so they don't think I'm selling something) and ask if I can inquire about the vehicle. I've always had great success! Go for it!

 

[r.j.dawg]

Re: Using a coworker's spouse as a contractor? Mixing work and non-work services?

Can't hurt to get a quote, and ask for references at the same time. Go and have a look at some jobs he's done. All's fair in love and contracting.

I've done it many times. Bathroom reno, kitchen reno, front stone work. They either love the job that was done and invite you to come over to have a look, or they hate it and you will spend the next hour on the phone listening to their story. Go for it. It doesn't cost a cent but could save you a bundle.

 

[lncoop]

Re: Using a coworker's spouse as a contractor? Mixing work and non-work services?

I've done it many times. Bathroom reno, kitchen reno, front stone work. They either love the job that was done and invite you to come over to have a look, or they hate it and you will spend the next hour on the phone listening to their story. Go for it. It doesn't cost a cent but could save you a bundle.

Yep. Not at all untoward, especially if the individual is a listed reference as singer says. It's a great way to determine his work habits; how clean he is, whether he seems to stay close to schedule and budget, that sort of thing.

 

[foodfisher]

Re: Using a coworker's spouse as a contractor? Mixing work and non-work services?

Never do business w/friends or family! You could lose both. Coworker counts as friend?

 

[Tim Frank]

Re: Using a coworker's spouse as a contractor? Mixing work and non-work services?

Never do business w/friends or family! You could lose both. Coworker counts as friend?

That makes no sense.
If the parties conduct business in a fair and rational manner, it should make no difference what personal connection may exist.
If one or more don't....count it as a learning experience.....and you won't have lost anything that had any worth in any event.

 

[hostage]

Re: Using a coworker's spouse as a contractor? Mixing work and non-work services?

Never do business w/friends or family! You could lose both. Coworker counts as friend?

No, I would say hello if I saw them in a store, other than small talk, it is pretty much strictly business.

 

[foodfisher]

Re: Using a coworker's spouse as a contractor? Mixing work and non-work services?

Then it all hinges on wether the "spouse" is male or female. Fair and rational are the first victims in a female dispute. Just ask any divorcee.