They could be misleading!

• "We offer money saving coupons"
• Pictures, especially slide shows"
• Message in Videos and Audios
• Reading positive Testimonials
• "We're licensed and Insured"
• "I'm a Master Carpenter"
• Stated amount of Experience

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• Solicits at door,
• No listing in phone book.
• Provides only a P.O Box address.
• Offers a discount for on spot decision.
• Quote only good for today.
• Request you obtain Building Permit.
• Accepts only cash.
• Request a large deposit.
• Refuses to provide written estimate.
• Refuses to provide written contract.

The above list are obvious indicators, for the not so obvious visit “Mistakes to Avoid"

Printable Diagram illustrating location, description & function.

Myths highlighted in Black - Reality Highlighted in Red.

To apply for a CT Home Improvement License you must have sufficient / documented hours of formal training & experience. Also, knowledge of building codes & business laws and to obtain a license passed a test conducted by State of Connecticut.
No test required, just pay a fee. You don’t earn a license you buy one.

Advertisements offering a coupon means a reduction in cost.
Not true, your given an inflated quote to counter- act any alleged reduction. Coupons are only legit when purchasing a product with a pass history of value. The Home Improvement Industry sells a service not a product, thus any given quote is subjective and could be manipulated.

Public perception of the word “Experienced” is one that is qualified, skilled & knowledgeable in their profession.
Contractor’s interpretation is calculated by total years of involvement. Unfortunately contractors interpretation doesn’t conclude being qualified nor possessing knowledge , common sense or performing quality workmanship . Also, stated amount of experience is subjective and most likely exaggerated. For example they include their “Time of Experience” when not working, unemployed, injured, on disability, laid off or in a different profession.

Videos featured on web sites reflect proof that company is qualified to perform illustrated work in a professional & workmanship manner.
Not necessarily true. Videos are created by paying an advertising agency to illustrate a company in a positive / professional manner, even if the information (supplied by client) is false, exaggerated or misleading.

Photos of a company’s previous work (similar to your project) are an assurance of their capability thus they are qualified.
Not necessary true. Photos don’t confirm if customer was satisfied with company's workmanship, communication skills, demeanor, cleanliness or starting & completing project as promised.

Testimonials illustrated on web sites are true.
Not necessary true... There are no restrictions or guidelines to prove a testimonial is accurate or genuine before being posted. Even a genuine testimonial is not an assurance of company’s qualifications when it is extremely old or doesn’t specify type of project performed. These testimonials are inconclusive to determine their present abilities.

Claiming to be a "Master Carpenter".
There's no organization, association or governing party in the United States giving certifications claiming one to be a true “Master Carpenter”. There are Master & Grand Master rankings in chess, judo & karate, however not Carpentry.