Try out these suggestions to help you select a good home contractor.
If your home has sustained damage after a disaster event, then you need to find a good, trustworthy contractor to handle your repairs. However, with all the candidates out there, it can be difficult to select the right person for the job. If you are struggling to find someone that you can rely on, then try out these suggestions to help you select a good home contractor.
- Ask Your Insurer for References
When you report your damage to your home insurance provider, ask your agent if they can recommend any general contractors in your area. Oftentimes, insurance agencies keep a list of reputable contractors that their clients have worked with in the past. So, your insurer should be able to give you some good options to check out.
- Avoid Door-to-Door Contractors
After a storm, it’s not uncommon for affected homeowners to have contractors knocking on their doors and offering their services. While using a door-to-door contractor seems convenient, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid hiring these workers. Many of these unsolicited contractors are scam artists who do not have a good business track record. To protect yourself, should only accept bids from the contractors that you have personally contacted.
- Review Any Contracts Carefully Before Signing
Once you have decided on a contractor, you should carefully review any written agreements before signing them. Make sure that the contract states the building materials being used, the labor being performed, the terms of payment, and who is responsible for obtaining building permits. At this point, you should also ask for proof of the contractor’s workers compensation and general liability insurance to ensure that you will not be held liable for any injuries on your property. Finally, scan the document for any areas that have been left blank. You should never sign an agreement where details are left unspecified as the contractor could go back and add terms after you have signed the contract.
Try out these suggestions to select a good home contractor. Remember having the right homeowners insurance is also an important part of handling damage. Do you have questions about your home coverage? If so, then contact the experts at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency. Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers including: Kemper, MetLife, Nationwide, Travelers, The Hartford, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.