We’ve discussed general safety information after a storm, how to make sure you have a safe food supply, and re-entering your home (or business) after a storm. But, staying safe after a storm isn’t just about personal health. It also means ensuring your financial safety.

Preparing a list of licensed and insured workers before a storm can help prevent fraud. Remember, anyone can claim to be a general contractor or electrician, and people are vulnerable after suffering a loss, like property damages from a storm. Be cautious of anyone coming to your home uninvited and offering services and repairs.

Here are some more basic guidelines:

• Know your homeowner’s insurance policy.
• Use your pre-storm home and contents inventory to assess storm damages.
• Take photos of damage, before repairs.
• If needed, make temporary repairs to avoid further damage.
• Obtain written estimates (more than one, preferably) for repair/replacement work.
• Get everything in writing, such as:
  • Total cost
  • Detailed list of what is included in the project
  • Time schedule, guarantees, and/or warranties provided
  • Payment schedule
  • Never sign a contract that includes blank spaces
  • Carefully read any document before signing!
• Ask for references and check them out
• Do not pay in full before work begins.
• Never pay in cash.
• Contractors, not you, must pull permits, required for any kind of demolition, permanent repair, reconstruction, and roofing.
• Keep all receipts, for a “paper trail.”
• Don’t be pressured into signing a contract immediately
• If you suspect fraud, contact the State of Florida Consumer Fraud Hotline at (866) 966-7226.

Remember, anyone can claim to be a general contractor or roofer. Be diligent and follow the tips above, even when not recovering from a storm event.

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