Most home renovations and repairs are done because the owner has the time and money to schedule it. But when a home is damaged by an unexpected natural disaster like flood, fire, or natural disaster like a tornado or earthquake. There is little time to prepare and plan.
A natural disaster is the perfect opportunity for rip-off artists to “come to the rescue”. They will contact you, ask for payment in advance and then overcharge, doing poor workmanship and finally disappear without finishing the job. There are emergency ordinances in place, but for desperate victims anxious to repair their home and property, recognizing a rip-off can be a challenge.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offer the following tips for those facing major repairs after a disaster and can also apply to any renovation/repair:
- Deal only with licensed and insured contractors and get a list of customers and recommendations.
- Check with the local Remodelers/Builders Association and Better Business Bureau to verify any contractor you’re considering.
- Ask if there’s a charge for an estimate, and then get a written estimate that includes any oral agreements.
- Don’t automatically choose the lowest bidder.
- Check for recommendations. Avoid contractor who ask for full payment up-front. A deposit of one-third of the total price is standard procedure.
- Have an attorney review the contact and loan agreements made.
Always hire an established professional renovation/remodeling contractor. After a natural disaster, they may be busy, but it’s better to wait than relying on an unknown.