Insurance fraud costs Americans billions of dollars annually. While most home-repair contractors are honest and do quality work, others do not. These tips can help you choose an honest, reputable contractor. Feel free to contact if you have questions about a contractor. As a LOCAL agency we are familiar with many of the contractors in this area. Remember too that insureds always have the choice of what contractor they will use to do have repairs made.
•Be wary of contractors who solicit door-to-door. Work only with established contractors, and those who have a solid reputation.
•Work only with licensed, bonded and insured contractors and have them provide you with documentation.
•Require references and check them out.
•Check with your local Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against contractors you are considering.
•Don’t feel pressured into signing a contract, and never sign a contract with blanks. A contract should have the contractor’s name, business name, phone number and address.
•Avoid payment-in-full up front. Some contractors may require a partial up front payment, but the amount should not exceed approximately 20% of the total estimate amount.
•Never let work begin on your home or business till the contract is finalized.
•Don’t pay a contractor in full or sign a completion certificate until the job is completed and you are satisfied with the work – avoid making cash payments
•If anyone performs unauthorized work on your property and demands payment, consider contacting authorities.
•Never let anyone persuade you to seek reimbursement for non-existent or exaggerated losses or damages. This is insurance fraud, which is a felony.