Media contact: Janet C. Hart, APR, CFEE (704) 927-8617 office
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Severe storms packed with wind and rain like the ones we have had in the last few weeks can damage your vehicles, as well as many parts of your home.
A leaky roof or water in your basement could lead to bigger problems with mold. If you have damage from recent storms, the BBB has a checklist with ten tips for hiring a home repair contractor.
“All it takes is a business card, a cell phone, and a hammer for someone to claim they are a contractor,” said BBB President Tom Bartholomy.
“You should do your homework to hire a contractor with a good track record,” said Bartholomy.
“There are thousands of reputable contractors who will deliver quality work, on time and within budget.”
BBB Checklist: 10 Tips for Hiring a Home Repair Contractor:
1. Track record – Check out a company’s BBB rating and complaint history at www.bbb.org. It’s fast, easy and free. You can also call the BBB at (704) 927-8611 or 1-877-317-7236, toll-free in N.C. and S.C. Customer service operators are available, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (excluding 12-1 p.m. for lunch).
2. Cost comparisons - Get at least three bids in writing and be sure you compare the bids based on the same warranty, specifications, labor and time.
3. Licensing - Check to see if the company you plan to hire has the proper licensing.
· N.C. General Contractors Licensing Board, click on Licensee Search
· S.C. Contractors Licensing Board, click on Licensee Lookup
4. Insurance - Verify the company’s liability insurance to protect you against damage. You can also check with the department of insurance in your state.
· N.C. Dept. of Insurance - 1-800-546-5664 toll-free from N.C.
· S.C. Dept. of Insurance - 803-737-6180 or 1-800-768-3467 toll free from S.C.
5. References – Ask for references from the company’s last three jobs and check them out before you sign a contract.
6. Written contract - Do not permit work to start without a signed, written contract that includes start and completion dates, exact costs, specific work to be done, and warranty information. Be sure to read the fine print carefully.
7. Deposit required and payment – Do not pay more than 25 to 33 percent of the total job cost as a deposit. Final payment should not be due until the job is completed. Do not pay in cash; pay by check or credit card.
8. Warranty – Get warranty information in writing on products and installation. Be sure to read the fine print carefully.
9. Bonding – Be sure all workers are bonded to protect you against theft or additional damage.
10. Criminal history – Check out anyone you allow into your home to see if they have a criminal history.
· N.C. online offender search – online offender directory search
· S.C. Dept. of Corrections - instructions to obtain information on offenders
For more information, please visit www.bbb.org.
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