Every contractor’s been there. The job looks easy enough, the client seems decent, and you think, “What the heck, I’ll take it.” Fast forward two weeks, and now you’re losing money, dealing with headaches, and wondering why you didn’t trust your gut.
The truth is, not every job is a good job. Some just aren’t worth the time, risk, or hassle. And that’s OK — if you can learn to say no.
Why It’s So Hard to Walk Away
When work slows down, it’s tempting to take on anything that comes your way. You’ve got bills to pay and mouths to feed. But chasing bad jobs can leave you worse off than if you had stayed home. Your crew gets burned out, your reputation suffers, and your profit? Gone.
Red Flags to Watch For
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A client who’s haggling before you even submit the bid.
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Vague project details or no plans.
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“I want it cheap and fast” (never a good combo).
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A job that’s far out of your normal area.
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Unrealistic expectations or weird vibes during the walkthrough.
If your gut is screaming, listen to it.
Run the Numbers Honestly
Sometimes a job looks small, but the logistics are a nightmare. If the drive time, material costs, or complexity outweigh the payout, it’s not worth it. Don’t trick yourself into thinking you’ll “make it up later” — that’s just wishful thinking with a shovel.
How to Say No (Without Burning Bridges)
You don’t have to be rude. Just be clear and professional:
“I appreciate the opportunity, but this project isn’t the right fit for my schedule right now.”
Or:
“Based on what you’re asking, it looks like this might go beyond my usual scope. I wouldn’t want to overpromise and underdeliver.”
You leave the door open, and they respect you more for being honest.
Stick to the Work That Builds Your Business
Good jobs pay well, go smooth (relatively speaking), and lead to more work. That’s what you’re after. The rest? Leave it for the guy who doesn’t know any better.