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I've come to an agreement with a contractor I found on the list to replace my roof.  He has an A rating.  He is asking for half of the agreed upon price up front.  Is this an acceptable practice?

Thanks,

Steve

I would be cautious on this. Are you purchasing materials yourself?  If not, then if you pay the 1/2 down so he can purchase the materials.  Instead, I'd offer to pay 1/2 the amount of the materials only as a deposit and have them dropped at your site with the other 1/2 material cost paid on delivery. Then another 1/2 of the labor when the job starts, and the final balance at completion/inspection.  That would be my first offer. If the company needs the $$ for material purchase, offer to pay the supplier directly under your contract as the deposit. 

 This is the most conservative approach. 

Hi spwalker75,

Paul from Angie's List here.  Gadgetgirl makes some good suggestions.  Typically, we recommend prepayment between 10-15 percent of the total value of the project, but it can vary. Whenever possible, avoid paying for a project with cash.  If you can, use a credit card instead so you recourse in case something goes wrong.  Before you sign off and make a final payment, check to be sure the work is complete and to your satisfaction.

Good luck with the project!