Storm Damage

Last week’s severe weather brought high winds, hail, tornado threats and other severe weather to the Midwest, kicking off the spring storm season.
Whether you were impacted by those storms or end up needing to address storm damage later this spring, BBB advises consumers to contact their insurance coverage provider,
check businesses out with BBB, and get at least three estimates before deciding on a
contractor to make repairs.
BBB has received reports after past storms about “fly-by-night” contractors who went door-to-door after major storms, offering to help victims clear debris or patch up homes — and then left with the customer’s deposit after doing little or no work. Some couldn’t be reached when consumers wanted refunds or were dissatisfied with the repairs.
Dealing with storm damage is stressful, and depending on the damage, can sometimes be urgent. It’s understandable to want repairs done quickly, but it’s also important to not rush into a decision without doing research. Bad actors might try to take advantage of
people in a stressful, disadvantaged situation.
What’s the best way to find a company for repairs after a storm?
● Call your insurance company first. They’ll help you determine what coverage will be
provided and if there are any restrictions or conditions before finalizing a contract with a repair service.
● Research the company. You can search for a company’s BBB Business Profile to learn if it’s a BBB Accredited Business, see any complaints and read customer reviews. Ask for local references and speak with those customers about their experience and the quality of the work.
● Watch out for red flags. Be cautious any time a contractor contacts you first, especially door-to-door or after a natural disaster. Avoid cash only deals, high pressure sales tactics, high up-front payments, and making any payments without a written contract.
● Shop around. Ask for quotes from multiple businesses for the same criteria. Remember that the lowest bid may not necessarily be the best
bid; an exceptionally low bid could mean the contractor is cutting corners or doesn’t
understand your work requirements.
What should I make sure to do when I hire a company for repairs?
● Get it in writing. Request a detailed, written contract. Do not be pressured into signing an agreement before you are ready, and make sure you read and understand it before signing. The contract should include contact information, start and complete dates, a detailed description of the work to be done, material costs, payment arrangements, and warranty information.
● Verify license and insurance. Confirm that the company you decide to work with has the necessary licenses and insurance to work in your region.
● Ask about a lien waiver. A lien waiver is a statement from your contractor that says all suppliers and subcontractors have been paid for their work.
● Arrange a payment schedule. For major jobs, never pay in full up front. Stagger your
payments so your final payment is not due until the work is complete and you have fully inspected it. Do not pay with cash; use a credit card if possible.
● Don’t sign over insurance checks to contractors. Get an invoice from the contractor and pay them directly. Don’t sign any documents that give the contractor rights to your insurance claims.
● Get a receipt. Request a receipt marked “Paid in Full” when the job is done and your final payment is made.
● Keep your contract. Hold on to your contract for future reference or if any questions arise after the work is complete.
Don O’Brien is the regional director for the Quincy Better Business Bureau.
Contact him at [email protected] or (217) 209-3972