ChurchSafety

When you need a plumber to fix the restrooms, a repairman for the copier, or a supplier to satisfy your congregation's coffee craving, where do you turn? You could pull out the Yellow Pages and pick one, but how do you know that you're getting the best service at the best price? These simple tips can help you hire the best vendor for your next project.

• Inquire within. Sometimes, the talent you need might lie within your church. People within your congregation may either provide the service or recommend a company that does.
  
  
• Ask around. Other churches in your community can provide great references, since they need many of the same resources. Ask which vendors have served them well—and which ones haven't.
  
  
• Investigate experience. Once you have identified potential vendors, it's time to check them out—thoroughly. Just because a church member can repair residential plumbing doesn't mean he's the best person to rip out and re-plumb the church's restrooms.
  
  
• Visit the bureau. Check out the Better Business Bureau's Web site. How does the BBB rate the company you're considering? What complaints have been filed against it?
  
  
• Quiz customers. Ask the vendor for a list of current or former customers. How well did this vendor satisfy their needs? If there were problems, how well did the company resolve them?

• Ask about experience. Has this company worked on projects of a similar size and scope? Has it worked with churches like yours before?
  
  
• Assess financial stability. Inquire how long this vendor has been in business and how large is its customer base. If it's a startup, will it be in business 10 years from now?
  
  
• Discuss terms of contract. If hired, what will this company provide, when, and at what cost? If things don't work out, how do you end the contract and get reimbursed for unsatisfactory service?

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