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How to Hire a Builder / Contractor
Storm-affected residents and business owners will more than likely need one or more contractors to help repair disaster damages or rebuild homes and businesses. Disaster recovery officials urge citizens to be smart consumers when choosing professional help. To help recovery efforts, follow these suggestions:
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If you were satisfied with past work done by local licensed contractors, try them again
. If they cannot help you, as for recommendations. If you must hire a contractor you don’t know, talk to several before signing anything.
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Beware “FEMA Certified”.
This can signal a scan. FEMA does NOT certify or endorse any contractor.
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Check the contractor’s reputation
. The local Better Business Bureau, homebuilders association or boards of contractors all are sources of information. Ask if the contractor you are considering has unanswered complaints tiled against him/her.
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Ask for references
. Contractors should be willing to provide names of previous customers. Contact some of these customers and ask if they would hire the contractor again.
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Ask for proof of insurance
. Be sure the contractor has general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. If not, you may be liable for accidents on your property.
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Insist on a written estimate
. Make sure it includes everything you expect the contractor to do. Also, find out up front if the contractor will charge a fee for that estimate.
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Ask for a contract
. The contract should clearly state all work, costs and the payment schedule. Never sign a blank contract or one with blank spaces. It may be worthwhile to have a lawyer look at the contract before signing it.
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Get guarantees in writing
. If the contractor provides guarantees, he/she should clearly state what is covered by that guarantee (dealer, contractor or manufacturer), and how long the guarantee is valid.
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Obtain a local building permit if required. Permits may be required for site work, other than demolition, and for reconstruction. Contact your local government for permit information.
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Get a copy of the final, signed contract and read it over carefully before signing
. Once signed, the contract is binding on both you and the contractor.
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Do not sign off before the job is finished
. Make sure the work is done to your satisfaction before signing completion papers or making a final payment. A reputable contractor will not threaten you or pressure you to sign if the job is not finished properly.
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Pay by check
. Avoid on-the-spot cash payments. The safest route is to write a check to the contracting company. A reasonable down payment is 30% of the total cost of the project, to be paid upon initial door-to-door sales of more than $25.00.
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Canceling a contract
. This should be done within three business days of signing. Be sure to follow the procedures for cancellation that are set out in the contract. Send the notification by registered mail with a return receipt to be signed by the contactor.
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Report problems
with a contractor or fraud to your state office of the Attorney General.
Home Builders Association of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Southeast Mississippi Home Builders Association and the Real Estate Guide
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