Hiring a Contractor

How to Hire a Contractor

 

Consider some important advice before you hire a contractor: 

Verify the company’s business address and reputation.

Insist on a complete, clearly written contract.

DO ask for references.

DO NOT pay more than 20% up front.

Select a few companies and ask for written estimates.

Be aware of warning signs for scams.

These might include: 

  • You’re told that on this job, a contract “won’t be necessary.”
  • You’re asked to pay for the entire job “up front”—or pay cash to a salesperson instead of a check or money order to a company.
  • You are confronted with scare tactics. 
  • You’re told you’ve been “chosen” as a demonstration project at a special, low price. 
  • You’re told a low price is good only if you sign a contract today. 
  • The contractor won’t give you references—or the references can’t be located. 
  • You can’t verify the contractor’s business address.

Search for a HBA member business, or search for a HBA builder.

 

Remember to check out resources such as the Better Business Bureau.

 

Read this checklist of questions to ask a contractor.

 

Watch a quick video by FEMA on Identifying Disaster Fraud and Scams.

 

 

Before and After a Storm or Severe Weather

 

Plan ahead and prepare your home and family to be safe through extreme weather conditions. This section contains information and links for storm preparation. If storm damage were to happen, learn how to select a contractor or company to work on your home,  

 

Before the Storm

Prepare your home and family for extreme weather such as a hurricane.

  • View FEMA's Ready.gov website for safety tips, kit ideas and more. 
  • In addition, local information can be found at the N.C. Department of Crime Control and Public Safety website, ReadyNC.org.
  • Read Progress Energy's Storm Safety Tips.

After the Storm 

Below are a few links for home owners who want to take care of flood damage, or feel free to call the HBA office to help you find a contractor who specializes in disaster clean up.