Fearing the Storm
We all look with fear at the skies when a tornado or hurricane threatens, knowing the real horror comes after the storm. Of course when we think of the aftermath, we envision physical destruction of property. That may be only the beginning.
This week our sister city of Wetumpka, Alabama felt the rage of a tornado tearing through homes, businesses and a church which had withstood the elements for over a century. With the passing of the storm, came the assessment of restoring the city to normalcy. That is when, with the owners at their weakest, the pirates and thieves come to make their lives even more miserable.
Danger Arrives on Two Legs
Usually within the first week the first fake contractors arrive, promising fast work, inexpensive supplies. and excellent workmanship. At this time the owners of the destroyed buildings have notified their insurance companies, which have sent adjusters out to survey the damage. Some of the more unfortunate may have let their insurance lapse and are trying to figure ways to pay for the rebuilding. The wolves circle to find the weakest of the victims.
Before Hiring a Contractor
To avoid becoming a victim there are rules to follow before anyone hires a contractor, rules that save time and money in the long run. Best of all, it may save the person doing the hiring from ending up in court later, trying to recover funds.
- Verify the contractor’s name, address and phone number. Do NOT trust anyone who only has a post office box instead of a traceable street address.**
- Request references on similar work performed by a contractor, preferably at least a year prior. It doesn’t hurt to ask if he is currently working on a project and asking to see it.
- Make certain the contractor has an occupational license from the state Home Builders Licensure Board. It is usually a pocket-sized card.
- Verify the contractor’s record with professional associations and licensing boards such as Home Builders Association and Home Builders Licensure Board, the Better Business Bureau and the Consumer Division of your state government.
- Always get at least three bids in writing and be certain that each bid is based on the same set of plans, specifications and scope of work.
- Check to see if the contractor has a professional designation such as the Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), awarded upon completion of coursework in technical courses, business management, and contracts and law.
Before the Contractor Starts Work
Before handing over any job to a contractor, every person should:
- Ask to see proof of worker’s compensation and liability insurance.**
- Agree on finance charges and make a payment schedule in writing.
- Make sure you have guarantees and warranties in writing.
- Agree on start and finish dates and put those dates in writing.
- Make sure the contract is specific, including details about size, color, materials, brands and models.
- Make an agreement that withholds full payment until the property owner is satisfied with the completed job.
When Things Go Wrong
Should a property owner discover he/she has been the victim of home repair fraud, contact the Attorney General’s Office to report the problem. If the complaint is verified, that office will direct the owner in filing a complaint.
**Many thanks to the Office of Attorney General, State of Alabama, Consumer Interest Division for tips for hiring reliable contractors.https://ago.alabama.gov/Documents/File-Verify-the-Contractor.pdf