If you’re dealing with damage from Ian, 5 On Your Side says there are important things to know before you hire anyone to do repairs.
“We’ve seen that natural disasters lead to an increase in individuals posing as legitimate licensed contractors in an effort to prey upon vulnerable citizens,” said C. Frank Wiesner, executive director of the NC Licensing Board for General Contractors. “Individuals who hire unlicensed contractors are putting themselves at greater financial risk.”
NCLBGC is warning people to take these precautions:
Any project quoted at $30,000 or more requires a valid NC general contractors license.
Projects less than $30,000 do not require a license. However, hiring a NC licensed general contractor may offer security in knowing that you have contracted with a general contractor who is authorized to perform work in NC. Ask for proof that the contractor is licensed. The NCLBGC does not recognize licenses or issued by other states or countries. Citizens can verify if the contractor is properly licensed by searching on the NCLBGC’s website.
Be wary of door-to-door repair solicitations or people who demand deposits or payments in cash.
Contact your insurance company for guidance before beginning any work. Do not make a large deposit or upfront payment in full. Require a written contract that details the work to be done, materials to be used, a payment schedule that is based on completion of work and a timeline for work to be completed. A licensed general contractor is required to list their license number on all contracts.
Do not make payments before work specified on the payment schedule is completed.
Do not make payments for any work not specified in the contract unless it has been submitted and approved in writing by you before the additional work begins.
Request a Certificate of Insurance from the contractor and verify it is valid by contacting the party who issued it.
Contact the local permitting office or inspections department to determine if permits are required to assure building code compliance. If permits are required, confirm with the permit office that the contractor has acquired them before construction begins.
Before making final payment, evaluate the completed work and require the contractor to confirm that all subcontractors and suppliers have been paid to eliminate potential liens on your property.
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Choosing a Contractor
Ask friends and family members about contractors they have used in the past.
Check last year’s telephone book to see if they were in business or if they just popped up in the area to handle storm damage. Businesses get a free local listing
Does the contractor have a local physical address? For how long?
How long have you been in business?
Ask what types of projects they are familiar with. Building a new home is very different than remodeling or repairing a home. Remodelers are used to working with you while you are living in the home. They know how to minimize dust and dirt and know how to respect your family and property.
How long will it take you to provide me with an estimate for the cost to repair my property?
The cost of the estimate will vary depending on the scope and complexity of the work. Most insurance companies will require more than one estimate. Be sure to get a complete scope of work including materials to be used that way you can compare the estimate fairly.
Can I see an example of your specifications provided on other jobs?
Can you arrange for packing, transportation and/or storage of household items?
Can you provide references? }
If so, call them. Not just one or two be vigilant.
Do you have experience dealing with insurance adjustors?
How long before you will be able to begin work?
Be patient. Most reliable contractors were working on projects prior to the storm and will get to you as quickly as they can.
Is your company licensed to work in the state of North Carolina?
NC Law requires a licensed general contractor on any projects over $30,000
Can you provide proof of Workmans Compensation and Liability Insurance?
Avoid doing business with contractors who do not carry this type of insurance. Otherwise, you’ll be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project.
Will you apply for the appropriate permits from the local building department?
Is your work guaranteed or does it have a warranty? For how long?
Most contractors will guarantee their work for at least a year. This is another reason to hire a local company!
How are payments handled?
Typically you pay a deposit when you sign a contract and then payments are made at different phases of the work. Do not give more than 20% down for a large job!
When will you expect final payment?
Usually, the final payment isn’t made before the Certificate of Occupancy is issued by the municipality.
Can I see a sample contract?
Read through this thoroughly. Ask questions if you do not understand something.
Contract Components
Contractors Name
Contractors Physical Address and Telephone Number (including emergency contact information) (Check to make sure address exists and there is a company by the same name at the address)
General Contracting License Number
The payment schedule
The estimated start and completion dates
The cancelation policy
The policy and procedures regarding any Additional Work Authorizations (Change Orders – a written agreement to alter work described in the original contract. Remodelers often require payment for additional work authorizations before the work begins.)
A detailed list of what work will and will not be performed (including materials)
When work begins make sure that all materials are the same as specified in the contract.
This list is not inclusive of everything to be considered. It has been put together as a guideline in the hopes it helps during these stressful times.
Contact local law enforcement if you suspect you are being scammed by a contractor.
Contact the NC Attorney General’s office if you suspect you are being price gouged by the contractor or call toll free within North Carolina at 877-5-NO-SCAM or 877-566-7226.
