Storm Recovery Tips from CCI

Home construction/renovation fraud and price gouging has already begun to happen here in the Tennessee Valley. We are already getting reports of these types of actions taken by not just out of state contractors, but also some contractors here in the area. If you have a rebuilding or renovation need due to the storms, CCI wants you to be prepared. Here are a few tips that will assure that you protect yourself and your family

Stay Calm

Although this is a trying time for your family or business, make sure you do your due diligence in making any decisions. Many times, people tend to rush their decisions, and it causes them to make costly choices. Do your homework on the companies you are considering.

Use a reliable, licensed Alabama contractor.

Ask to see their certificate of license from the State of Alabama. For more information about a contractor or if you are unsure about the validity of a license, check with the Huntsville/Madison County Builders Association (we are listed under "CCI Custom Homes") and your local or state contractor licensing officials (you may search us - License #7441 or under "Christian Contractors, Inc.) or by calling 1-800-304-0853.

Use a LOCAL North Alabama building contractor

The contractor should be able to provide evidence of good work, timeliness, and ethical behavior. Many contractor companies will be coming from out of state over the next several weeks, it is much safer to choose a local Alabama contractor to service your needs. There are plenty of great builders here in North Alabama. You can check with the Huntsville/Madison County Builders Association or your local builders association for licensed contractors.

Proof of Insurance

Make sure your contractor carries general liability insurance and workers' compensation. A homeowner could be liable for accidents on the property when working with an uninsured contractor.

Beware of People Going Door to Door

People going door-to-door to damaged homes or phoning disaster survivors and claiming to be building contractors could be frauds. If visitors or callers solicit personal information such as Social Security or bank account numbers, they may not be legitimate.

Get a Written Estimate, and Make Sure to Read the Fine Print

Always get estimates from several reputable contractors before making a decision. Always hire a local contractor if at all possible.

Ask for a Written Contract

A complete contract should clearly state all the work to be performed, all associated costs, the payment schedule and obligate the contractor to pay for all materials ordered for the job.

Permits

Make sure the contract clearly states who will obtain the necessary permits. Keep a copy of the signed contract. All construction and renovation jobs WILL require a permit from county or city. DO NOT LET ANYONE talk you into applying for a permit under your name. If they do so, that is a major red flag and they may be hiding a bad reputation.

Ask for Multiple References and Validate their Previous Work

Get names and addresses, and look at the work they have done. Many contractor websites will also have their work on there.

Be Wary of Anyone Who Asks for More than 30% Upfront

You should only pay a minimal amount up front to show good faith and your ability to pay.

Businesses with an Established Address May be Safer

Ask for multiple ways to contact them and validate that they are easy to reach.

Businesses With Websites May be Safer

If they're not big enough to have a website, that might indicate that they are unsuccessful, new or unlicensed.

Pay By Check

Avoid making payments in cash You may get quotes from any contractor or repairman that you choose. The insurance companies will have a list of "preferred" companies that they do business with. Although you might trust your insurance agent, do your due diligence to check out additional companies that can repair your home.

Insurance Companies

Most insurance companies will want to deny you or lessen what your property is worth and/or what is due to you (depreciating value). They may possibly deduct deductible. It is also highly recommended to hire an attorney to review your insurance policy. You should ALSO HIRE YOUR OWN INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR. The insurance company will give you a list of companies they have approved. However, you may choose any contractor you desire to make do your job. This will help to keep the insurance companies honest and help you to get a fair shake.

Our team at CCI cannot emphasize this enough. Please do your due diligence, we promise this will be well worth your time and efforts.

Sincerely,

Christian Contractors, Inc.
2317 North Meridian Street, Suite 5, Huntsville, AL 35811
(256) 883-9443 - Charles Flores Arocha, Owner

Copyright 2010 - Christian Contractors, Inc.

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