By Mi-Ling Stone Poole –
DEAR MI-LING: My home was recently damaged by hail, and I am trying to hire a reputable contractor to do the repairs. Do you have any suggestions on how to make sure that the business is legit?
Thanks,
Hail Stricken
With all the damage that tornados, hail storms and floods have caused throughout the United States in the past few months homeowners are scrambling to find roofers, home remodelers and other individuals to help repair their homes.
Recently, a friend commented to me that in some of the hardest- hit neighborhoods in Oklahoma you’ll see more out- of- state license plates on contractors’ trucks than Oklahoma plates.
Once damage has occurred in an area, reputable in-state and out-of state contractors ̶ and rip-off artists flock ̶ to these neighborhoods.
Unfortunately, some will take advantage of desperate homeowners.
Here are some things to remember when hiring a contractor:
- Have your insurance company review the damage before you get repairs
- Never give the contractor a deposit. Pay them after the work is completed and inspected.
- Most insurance companies will allow you to access money for the repairs as they are completed, based on percentage of work completed and inspections.
- Ask if the contractor is licensed (if required by your state), insured and bonded and then ask to see a copy of the documents
- Get several bids
- Ask for a list of references
- Check the companies out on the Better Business Bureau website at bbb.org
Have you been scammed by a roof company?