Think you can spot a problem client before they become a problem?
You probably can — especially if you know how to spot a bad client before taking the job.
We’re not saying you need to hire a private investigator or stalk their LinkedIn posts. But a quick 10-minute check before agreeing to the job can save you a world of stress down the line.
Here’s what to look out for.
1. Start with Companies House
It’s free, fast, and surprisingly revealing.
Before you sign anything, look them up on Companies House.
You’re looking for:
• How long they’ve been trading
• If they’ve changed directors often (that can be a red flag)
• If they’ve got loads of dissolved or dormant companies under the same names
• Any recent name changes — especially if it’s similar to one that’s gone under
If the company was set up two months ago by someone who’s liquidated three other firms? Probably best to tread carefully.
This is a classic move to watch for when learning how to spot a bad client before taking the job.
2. Google Their Name + “Reviews”
You’d be amazed what turns up.
Try combinations like:
• “XYZ Group reviews”
• “XYZ Ltd non payment”
• “XYZ Ltd scam”
Check forums, trade groups, and Trustpilot.
Look for complaints from subcontractors or suppliers.
If you spot a pattern — late payments, broken promises, constant disputes — believe it.
It’s a quick way to check their track record and helps you spot a bad client before taking the job.
3. Credit Check Them (Quickly)
You don’t need to buy a full financial report. Just get a basic credit check.
Sites like Creditsafe or Experian offer one-off checks or trial accounts.
What to look for:
• Low credit score
• High risk rating
• Bad payment history
If their credit rating’s rock bottom and they’ve got CCJs in the past year, that’s not someone you want to be chasing.
This is one of the simplest steps in how to spot a bad client before taking the job.
4. Dodgy Paperwork Is a Tell
If they send over a contract and it’s vague, rushed, or missing the basics (like agreed payment terms or dispute clauses), don’t let it slide.
Poor paperwork now = future headaches.
A good client won’t have a problem with clear terms. A dodgy one will.
Checking contracts properly is key when you’re figuring out how to spot a bad client before taking the job.
5. Gut Feel? Don’t Ignore It
We’ve heard it loads:
“I knew from the first call something wasn’t right.”
“They promised everything but wouldn’t commit in writing.”
“It all felt too good to be true.”
If your gut’s telling you to be cautious, listen to it.
Ask for upfront payments.
Tighten your terms.
Or walk away altogether.
And If It’s Too Late?
If you’re already owed money and the alarm bells are ringing, don’t panic — give us a call.
We specialise in construction debt recovery, so we know the tricks and tactics dodgy clients use.
We’ll chase it properly.
No win, no fee.
No stress.
