With the recent and still current storms a lot of us are now facing the daunting task of clean up and major repairs. Facing the loss of everything that had is appeared of value does not even cover the later possible loss when facing a scrupulous contractor that it out to only make some quick money. 

I can not do anything about or undo what Mother Nature has in store for us but I can give you some small tips and tit bits on keeping from facing more damage due to bad contractors. 

At first make certain you call your insurance company and have an estimator out to your home. There is a good possibility that not everything is covered but at least it will lessen the loss. Unless you have a total loss like one of my friends has. 

Your insurance agent will let you know what you can or should not do to lessen the loss before the adjuster comes to your home and then do it. 

Before you call any contractor over to give you even an estimate call your local municipality and find out what possible permits you need to for any major renovation or reconstruction. Yes theses permits they will cost you money but this will insure that the work will get done right and done to current code. While talking to your municipalities' just ask for the cost of each permit. I have seen contractors inflating the price just to get you not to get a permit. The permit can be a major pain but it is only there to insure that you the homeowner will get what you paid for and that you are safe and up to current code when you are moving back in to your home. 

When you need to pick a locate contractor you can find them for instance through, 

1. friends and family referrals
2. Local Real Estate Agents and Brokers
3. Chamber of Commerce
4. Angie's list
5. BBB

While picking a contractor ask for the following items from them. 

1. Their contractors' licenses, in most states contractor, even general contractors, have to be licensed. Did you know you can verify a license online and can check if there is any pending litigation?
2. Copy of their bond insurance, a reputable contractor is bonded. Call the insurance agent named on the policy to find out if it is still active.
3. Get reference, and then call them and see if you can go see the work performed by the contractor
4. Call the BBB and log on to Angie's list to inquire about this contractor.

When getting your estimates of repairs DO NOT let the same contractor write you out two separate estimates in two different names, just to give you a "great Deal" That right there smells more then a large pile of .......! I just last night overheard one of the contractors I know, but never did business with, talk about this to one of his friends and he was proud of his action. He will NOT be on my referral list!!! 

Get several, at least 3, estimates from separate contractors. This will give you a good idea on how much in average the repairs will cost. One Caution! There are might hidden damages that might will cost you extra, so be prepared for that. 

The one thing you will need to pack on this trip is a lot of patience....and be ready for a longer trip!!!

 Bettina Settles