Massive hurricanes are notorious for leaving destruction behind, but they are also known for dragging in every con-artist contractor within a five hundred mile radius. What should homeowners do to protect themselves from these contractors and find qualified contractors?
First, only use contractors licensed in your state.
Ask for his number and check it out with the state licensing board. While some states licensing requirements are lax, there is still a procedure to aquire a license which takes time. This eliminates the guy that only has a hammer, truck, and business card.
Second, make sure that the contractor has general liability and workers compensation insurance.
Get a certificate of insurance from his agent. Don't rely on the copy he has in his truck. This not only protects you, as the owner, but it also establishes that the contractor at least is a legitimate business.
Third, avoid unsolicited contractors.
If they come knocking on your door, beware. There is a reason they are looking for work.
Fourth, ask for, and check, references.
The most important reference is from a material supplier. Get several. Call large local vendors that he did not list, and ask for a reference. They will gladly let you know about his character. You will learn a lot about the contractor from this list. Next, get client references, even though I personally don't put much faith in these because they can easily be fraudulent.
