Choosing a Contractor

The following are useful tips when choosing a contractor for the reconstruction of your property:

• Obtain all information in writing, including cost, work to be completed, repair time and payment schedules and contractor guarantees. Make sure all details are provided to you. Work to be completed should be a comprehensive scope of work that includes every detail of the work to be performed. A reputable contractor should not have any additional costs over and above the original estimate. The only time additional costs may occur is when hidden damages are discovered during the reconstruction process. At that time, the contractor should contact both homeowner and insurance adjuster.
• Ask for references and check them. All legitimate contractors should be able to provide you with references of past customers and, also, subcontractors and suppliers. It is important that your contractor pays all subcontractors and suppliers on time, thus, lessening the chance of a mechanic's lien being placed on your property.
• What guarantees does the contractor offer?
• Don't pay for the repairs or sign a certificate of completion until all work has been completed in accordance with the contract specifications.
• Use a local contractor with a good reputation.