Choosing the right craftsman is crucial for the success of your works. In Luxembourg, the market is full of professionals, but they’re not all equal. Here are the 10 essential criteria for making the right choice and avoiding nasty surprises.
1. Check Qualifications and Accreditations
In Luxembourg, building trades are regulated. Every craftsman must have an establishment authorisation issued by the Ministry of the Economy.
How to check?
- Ask for the establishment authorisation number
- Verify on Guichet.lu or contact the Chamber of Trades
- For certain works (electrical, gas), specific accreditations are mandatory
A craftsman who refuses to provide this information is a red flag. Move on.
2. Examine Experience and References
Length of time in business isn’t everything, but it’s a good indicator of reliability and sustainability.
Questions to ask:
- How many years have you been in business?
- Have you already completed projects similar to mine?
- Can you show me photos of completed sites?
- May I contact former clients?
A professional who is confident in their work won’t hesitate to provide references. If they dodge the question, be wary.
3. Check Customer Reviews
Online reviews are a goldmine of information, but you need to know how to interpret them.
Where to look?
- Google My Business
- Professional Facebook pages
- Specialised platforms like Tack.lu
- Local forums and groups
How to read them?
- Be wary of profiles with only 5-star reviews (possible fake reviews)
- Look at detailed reviews that mention specific points
- Observe how the craftsman responds to negative reviews
- Prioritise recent reviews
Tip: A craftsman who takes time to respond to reviews, even negative ones, in a professional manner shows their concern for customer satisfaction.
4. Compare Several Detailed Quotes
Never settle for just one quote. Request at least three to have a basis for comparison.
A good quote must contain:
- Complete company details
- Establishment authorisation number
- Detailed description of works
- Materials used (brands, references)
- Unit price and total price excluding and including VAT
- Completion timeframe
- Payment conditions
- Quote validity period
Beware of abnormally low quotes. A price much lower than competitors often hides savings on material quality or services not included.
5. Verify Insurance
This is a crucial point often overlooked. In case of problems, only good coverage protects you.
Mandatory insurance:
- Professional liability insurance: covers damage caused during the works
- Ten-year guarantee: mandatory for structural works, covers defects for 10 years
How to verify?
- Request a valid insurance certificate
- Check that the planned works are properly covered
- Contact the insurer if in doubt
A craftsman without insurance exposes you to considerable financial risks in case of defects or accidents.
6. Assess Communication and Professionalism
The quality of communication is an excellent indicator of the craftsman’s seriousness.
Positive signals:
- Responds quickly to calls and messages
- Visits to assess the site before quoting
- Clearly explains the works and answers your questions
- Proposes solutions and alternatives
- Provides a realistic provisional schedule
Warning signals:
- Difficult to reach or never calls back
- Quotes without seeing the site
- Remains vague about timelines and prices
- Pressures you to sign quickly
- Doesn’t provide a written quote
7. Analyse Payment Conditions
Payment terms must be clearly defined and reasonable.
Normal practices:
- Deposit of 20 to 30% on order
- Interim payments according to progress
- Balance of 5 to 10% on completion
Practices to avoid:
- Full payment in advance
- Cash payment only
- No invoice
- Deposit greater than 50%
Important: Always keep a retention (5-10%) to pay after complete verification of works and resolution of any issues.
8. Check Availability and Deadlines
A good craftsman generally has a full order book. A craftsman immediately available for a big job can be suspicious.
Important questions:
- When can you start the works?
- What is the estimated duration of the project?
- Will you be present on site or do you delegate?
- How many people will be working?
Be wary of deadlines that are too short or too long. A serious craftsman gives realistic estimates based on their experience.
9. Examine the Contract and Guarantees
Before committing, make sure you have a clear and complete written contract.
Essential contract elements:
- Precise description of works
- Fixed and final price (except for additional works)
- Completion deadlines with delay penalties
- Work acceptance procedures
- Applicable guarantees
- Termination conditions
Legal guarantees:
- Perfect completion guarantee: 1 year
- Two-year guarantee (equipment): 2 years
- Ten-year guarantee (structure): 10 years
10. Trust Your Instinct
Beyond objective criteria, your feelings matter. If something makes you uncomfortable, listen to yourself.
Questions to ask yourself:
- Do I trust this person?
- Is communication smooth?
- Do I feel respected and listened to?
- Does the craftsman seem passionate about their trade?
A works project often involves several weeks of collaboration. You might as well choose someone you get along with.
Mistakes to Absolutely Avoid
Not checking the company
Too many individuals trust blindly and end up with fictitious or bankrupt companies.
Choosing only on price
The cheapest often costs more in the end: defects, poor quality materials, unforeseen additional works.
Paying without an invoice
Besides being illegal, you lose all your guarantees and recourse in case of problems.
Not formalising in writing
A verbal agreement means nothing in case of dispute. Everything must be written and signed.
Find Your Craftsmen on Tack
Looking for qualified craftsmen in Luxembourg? Tack connects you with verified professionals. Describe your project and receive up to 3 free quotes within 24 hours.
Our craftsmen are selected and their qualifications verified to guarantee you quality works.
FAQ
How do I report a dishonest craftsman?
You can contact the Chamber of Trades, the Luxembourg Consumer Union (ULC) or file a complaint with the police if you’re a victim of fraud.
What should I do in case of a dispute with a craftsman?
First try an amicable settlement in writing. If that fails, you can refer to the consumer mediator, then the court if necessary.
Can a craftsman refuse to provide a written quote?
Legally, a written quote is only mandatory for certain works. However, a serious professional will always agree to formalise their proposal in writing.
Should I always choose the cheapest craftsman?
No, price shouldn’t be the only criterion. Material quality, guarantees, experience and reliability are equally important. Compare services at equivalent prices.
