Why You Need to Watch for Red Flags

Why You Need to Watch for Red Flags

Not all website companies are created equal. Some provide excellent service, while others overcharge, underdeliver, or lock you into restrictive contracts. Many small business owners have been burned by web companies that disappear, deliver subpar work, or make it difficult to update or move their website.

Knowing the warning signs before you commit can save you time, money, and frustration.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

1. No Clear Pricing or Hidden Fees

  • They can’t give a straight answer about costs.
  • They offer a very cheap starting price but have hidden add-ons for basic features.
  • They insist on long-term contracts with no clear way to exit.

2. You Don’t Own Your Website

  • They register the domain name in their name, not yours.
  • Your website is locked into their custom system, making it impossible to move.
  • They refuse to give you admin access.

3. Poor Communication & Support

  • Slow to reply to emails or messages.
  • No clear process for support or maintenance after launch.
  • No documentation or training on how to use your website.

4. No Portfolio or Real Client Reviews

  • They can’t show previous work or only show generic templates.
  • Reviews seem fake or overly generic.
  • No case studies or references from real businesses.

5. They Guarantee You’ll Be “#1 on Google”

  • No one can guarantee top rankings on Google.
  • SEO takes time, and any company promising instant results is likely using spammy techniques that could get your site penalised.

6. No Security or Maintenance Plan

  • They don’t mention SSL certificates, backups, or security updates.
  • No plan for keeping your website updated and secure.

7. They Won’t Explain Things Clearly

  • They use too much jargon and avoid answering basic questions.
  • They make you feel stupid for asking questions.
  • A good web company should explain things in plain English.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Before signing a contract, consider:

  1. Do I feel comfortable with their level of communication and transparency?
  2. Have I checked their previous work and reviews?
  3. Do I fully understand what I’m paying for?
  4. If I need to move my website elsewhere, can I?

Questions to Ask Your Website Company

  1. Can I see examples of websites you’ve built for businesses like mine?
  2. Who owns the website and domain name once it’s built?
  3. What happens if I need support after launch?
  4. Are there any hidden fees or ongoing costs?
  5. How do you handle security and updates?

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Many businesses regret their website choice because they:

  • Chose the cheapest option without checking the details.
  • Didn’t read the contract before signing.
  • Assumed they owned the website, only to find out they didn’t.
  • Got stuck with a bad provider and couldn’t easily switch.

A reputable website company should be honest, transparent, and helpful. If something feels off, trust your instincts and look for a better option.

Next Steps

Now that you know how to spot a bad web company, the final step is making an informed decision. The next article will summarise everything and help you put together a final checklist before hiring a website company.

Coming Up Next:

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision – A final checklist to ensure you choose the right website provider.