BBB tips: Hiring a contractor to fix up storm damage

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. ( WHNT ) — The National Weather Service in Huntsville confirmed 14 tornadoes that hit North Alabama and Lincoln County, Tennessee during severe storms the evening of Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

Now, many families are left with damage to homes, cars and property, and the search for a contractor to fix things up quickly is underway.

The Better Business Bureau of North Alabama (BBB) wants to warn people of bad actors, “storm chasers” who are out-of-town contractors and may try to take advantage of those storm survivors.

Belinda McCormick, vice president of the BBB of North Alabama, explained that local contractors may be busier than usual, so people may turn to out-of-town contractors to get their work done.

McCormick said it’s important to take your time, look out for red flags and hire a trusted business that will get the job done right.

The BBB says not all contractors are scammers.

However, they may lack the proper licensing for your area, offer quick fixes or make big promises that they don’t keep.

When hiring any contractor, McCormick suggests the following:

• Contact your insurance company first
• Obtain estimates of the work to be done
• Get everything in writing
• Include specific products or colors you want in the contract
• Agree on a completion date

She also said not to sign anything prior to getting an estimate and timetable, because sometimes that paperwork can still lock you into a contract.

McCormick suggests verifying that the contractor you choose has the insurance needed to do the job on your property. Ask the company who their insurance carrier is, then call that insurance company to ensure their insurance is active and has not lapsed.

Homeowners can do some research to ensure they’re getting a quality contractor.

It’s important to know that any roofer doing repairs over $2,500 or remodeler doing contract work over $10,000 is required to be licensed through the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board.

To verify licenses online, click here or call 1 (800) 304-0853.

For more information and tips from the BBB about hiring a contractor to fix storm damage, click here.

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