Module 1: Shop Around For Contractors
Take your time and compare options
Don't feel rushed into signing a contract. Once your home is boarded up and secured, the "emergency" part is over. You have time to breathe and make a smart choice. And remember the survival mantra: Don’t sign anything. Take a breath.
Follow these three steps:
Don’t sign anything immediately: Some companies will pressure you to hurry, but you don't have to.
Ask for help: Talk to friends or family to find contractors they trust.
Get multiple bids: Compare prices and reputations from a few different companies before picking one.
Contractor red flags
Here are a few things to look out for when talking to contractors. If you experience any of the below than they may not be the contractor for you.
Pressuring you to sign a contract right away: You are always entitled to have time to review a contract. If a contractor insists you sign anything immediately, that is a sign you don’t want to work with them.
Asking for payment up front: Sometimes advance payment to contractors is necessary to pay for materials, but it should never be more than 50%. And on a full reconstruction project, the contractor should provide a payment schedule for you.
Offers discounts or waives your deductible: If a contractor offers you a discount, gift card, or some other free service it is more of a sales pitch and not a reflection on the quality of their work.
Will not communicate in writing: All communication with your contractor should be in writing in the event you need to prove something down the road.
Does not provide an itemized estimate: All insurance companies will need a detailed estimate, preferable in Xactimate format, from a contractor. If a contractor cannot provide that, they are likely not familiar with the insurance claim process and will not be able to work well with your adjuster.
Interviewing contractors
Download our What to Ask a Contractor Guide as you are vetting contractors to help guide the conversation.