You’ve just lived through a terrible flood, wildfire, or hurricane. Your house has suffered significant damage, and you don’t know where you’re going to live or how you’ll rebuild. Then comes the knock on the door, a call on your cell phone, or an ad on your local social media pages. A friendly contractor wants to know if you’d like help. Should you say yes?
Every year, tens of thousands of people live through natural disasters and have to fix their homes. Choosing a contractor is one of the most significant decisions they’ll make. Here are some tips to ensure you hire a trustworthy one and protect yourself from scams.
How did you find them? If they approached you, whether at your doorstep or elsewhere, be extra careful. Often, predatory contractors go door to door, utilizing car salesman-style pressure tactics to get you to hire them. Ideally, you’ll have found them through someone you trust or through a local organization’s or government’s vetted list of vendors.
Are they licensed? Most states require contractors to be licensed with the state. Ask the contractor to show you their license. Save a copy and independently verify their license number with your state department of insurance. If they tell you they’re licensed in another state or that they don’t have a license, be wary. Be also aware of the difference between “licensed” and “registered.” Licensed contractors have to periodically pass tests, while registered contractors simply have to provide contact information to a state authority.
