Trust & Safety

User Responsibility and Safe Practices

Using an online directory necessitates diligence and responsibility from both homeowners and service professionals. 

Homeowners should thoroughly research the service providers they consider hiring, checking for reviews, certifications, and references. It’s important to communicate clearly about expectations and to ask questions to ensure that both parties are on the same page. Service professionals, on the other hand, should maintain transparency regarding their qualifications and provide accurate information about their services. 

By following these guidelines and taking necessary precautions, both homeowners and service providers can create a safer and more trustworthy environment for their transactions. Here are some additional tips to help protect yourself:

Verify Information

Listings on our platform are posted directly by users, which means that the accuracy of the information relies heavily on the honesty and integrity of those users. 

While we encourage all our users to provide a truthful and accurate representation of their qualifications and experiences, it is ultimately your responsibility to thoroughly verify credentials, licensing, and past work history. 

Taking the time to conduct your own research can help ensure that you make informed decisions based on reliable information. 

This may involve checking references, reviewing feedback from previous clients, or consulting professional licensing boards where applicable. 

Protecting yourself and ensuring a successful partnership starts with this critical step.

Communicate Clearly

Before hiring or embarking on a project, it’s essential to discuss all terms, timelines, and expectations in writing. This includes outlining the scope of work, payment schedules, and specific deadlines. 

Clear communication not only sets the groundwork for a successful collaboration but also helps prevent misunderstandings that can arise later. 

By putting everything in writing, both parties have a reference point to ensure accountability and alignment throughout the project’s duration. 

This proactive approach fosters a more transparent working relationship and minimizes potential conflicts, paving the way for a smoother process overall.

Safety Measures When Meeting

When meeting with a service provider or homeowner, it’s important to prioritize safety. 

Consider implementing the following safety measures to ensure a secure interaction:

1. Don’t Meet Alone: Always have someone with you when meeting a service professional for the first time.
2. Inform Someone: Let a friend or family member know where you’re going and who you’re meeting.
3. Choose Daytime Meetings: Schedule meetings during daylight hours to ensure better visibility and safety.
4. Verify Credentials: Check the service provider’s credentials and read reviews before agreeing to meet.
5. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, don’t hesitate to reschedule or choose another provider.
6. Keep Your Phone Handy: Ensure your phone is charged and easily accessible in case you need to make a call.
7. Communicate Your Location: Share your exact location with someone you trust while the meeting is happening.

By taking these precautions, you can create a safer environment for yourself.

Payment Practices

Whenever possible, it’s wise to avoid making upfront payments. Instead, consider implementing staged payments that are tied to specific project milestones. 

This approach not only helps to ensure that quality work is delivered at each phase of the project but also creates a structured payment schedule that encourages accountability from the service provider. 

By releasing funds based on the completion of agreed-upon tasks, you safeguard your investment and foster a more collaborative working relationship.

Report Issues

If you come across a listing, user, or behavior that seems suspicious or violates our guidelines, please report it immediately to help us maintain a safe and trustworthy environment for everyone.

Your vigilance is crucial in identifying potential issues that could affect our community. You can:

Submit a Report Online

Use the “Report” option available on listings and profiles.

Email Us

Send details to support@hamptonroadshomeservices.com for review and follow-up.

Your reports help us maintain a safer platform for everyone, and we review each submission carefully.

Important Disclaimer

Our platform operates as an open directory, and while we strive for accuracy and reliability, we cannot guarantee the authenticity or reliability of every user or listing. 

Nothing posted on this website by Hampton Roads Home Services or individual users should be taken as a guarantee or endorsement of any kind.

We encourage everyone using our platform to follow safe practices and exercise good judgment when making connections. 

By using our directory, you acknowledge that you assume all responsibility for interactions, including those made directly with other users.

If you have questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us. Thank you for helping us build a safe and trusted community!