Angie's List: Dispute Resolution - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Paying for services rendered doesn't necessarily mean the business transaction is complete. So, what do you do if things don't go as planned with your contractor, doctor or any other service or health professional?

Despite all of your research and preparations, it's possible for issues to arise with your service or health care provider. The number one tip to resolve any mis-communication or dispute - stay calm.

Angie Hicks of Angie's List says, "If you find yourself in a situation where you have a complaint with a contractor, the best bet is to stay calm, and second, talk to the contractro in person. That way, you can work through the issues, they can ask questions, and it can be very collaborative. Second best, is by phone. Try not to do this via email and certainly don't put off talking about it.''

According to a nationwide Angie's List poll of people who say they wanted to fire their contractor, 46% say they felt they already paid for the project; 14% were afraid of the repercussions from breaking the contract; and 13% were afraid of upsetting the contractor.

And the worst case scenario may require you to report your contractor to the state. In fact, Indiana's contractor licensing board is a great place to start when hiring a contractor. In the case of issues with your health care providers, you should contact your state's medical licensing board. Regardless of the service, make sure you keep copies of all pertinent documents, like estimates, contracts and payments.

Angie Hicks says, "When addressing a concern with a contractor, the best bet is to have everything at your fingertips. Have all the documentation. Have any photos of problems areas. Even use video, if necessary, to describe the problems. That way, you are prepared for the conversation.''

Make sure you communicate quickly if you're not satisfied with the service. Complain in person and in good faith. And explain the consequences - word of mouth, good or bad, travels fast. 

Despite your preparations, it's possible for issues to arise, putting you in conflict with a service provider or health care provider.

According to a nationwide Angie's List poll:

• 23% have wanted to fire their contractor, but didn't;
• Of those who wanted to fire a contractor but didn't, 46% said they felt they already invested too much money into the project to switch contractors; 14% had already paid for the project; 14% were afraid of the repercussions from breaking the contract; and 13% were afraid of upsetting the contractor.

Whether it's an unanticipated cost, faulty equipment or a simple misunderstanding, conflicts can be unavoidable.

Angie's List tips: How to resolve a dispute

• Act quickly: If you have a concern or conflict, address it immediately. Waiting may only make the situation worse. If you don't speak up, then you can't expect them to do the job you want.

• When possible, complain in person: It's easy to be ignored if you write a letter or email expressing dissatisfaction, and phone calls can often result in being placed on hold for an exorbitant amount of time. If possible, make complaints in person by visiting your service or health provider's office.
• Complain in good faith: Ever hear your mother say you'll catch more flies with honey than with vinegar? Don't come into the situation angry or thinking everyone is out to get you. Instead, come into the situation thinking your provider will want to work with you to come to a resolution. Be assertive in sticking to the facts, but show that you are willing to work with the other party.
• Document everything: Document every part of the process, including every name, date, time and price that relates to the complaint. Documentation, such as receipts and written estimates, can be crucial evidence when trying to seek resolution. If a job was not completed or the work was performed poorly, take photo and video evidence to help prove your claim. Also, be ready to explain exactly how you want the situation to be resolved.
• Explain the consequences: If the contractor's response isn't sufficient, explain what will happen if you don't get action. If you have been a long-time customer, let them know that they will no longer have your business and you will not refer the company to friends and family.
• Report your contractor to the state: Your state's contractor licensing board is a great place to start when hiring contractors, as it will help you check licensing, credentials and provide critical information about the details of the construction process, such as how much a contractor is legally allowed to charge for a down payment. This is also the place you can report your contractor should something go awry. In the case of issues with your health care providers, you should contact your state's medical licensing board as well.