There may be times in our lives when we are faced with a natural disaster, such as a hurricane. After a disaster, it's difficult to focus on the various tasks that need to be handled. We have put together some quick tips to aid consumers in making the right home repair decisions.
- Know your contractor. A frequent problem after a disaster is the unscrupulous contractor who takes deposits before starting work or final payments before finishing. Beware of repair businesses or individuals who solicit door-to-door, arrive in unmarked vehicles, have a post office box or temporary address, claim they are from another county or state and are in the area solely to help disaster victims, or offer to work for you only if you secure the necessary permits.
- Check with the Miami-Dade County Consumer Services Department, Building Code Compliance Office and the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation to determine if the contractor or company has a complaint history.
- Check the contractor's address and license status with the Miami-Dade County Building Code Compliance Office and/or the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
- Although we understand that it is often difficult to find available contractors after a disaster, try to get at least three estimates. A reputable contractor or professional should not try to pressure you to obtain your business. Be certain that the estimates are itemized and for the same exact work and materials.
- Obtain at least three references from your contractor or professional and check them out. Asking for a list of references without checking them is a waste of time and potentially your money.
- Work with contractors you know or local firms with roots in the community. To find someone reputable, ask friends and families who have recently used a home repair contractor or professional.
- Obtain a written contract, with all of the details in writing, including the scope of work, types and brand names of materials to be used, warranties, guarantees, and final costs. Make sure any verbal commitments are written into the contract. Make sure you obtain release of lien waivers from all suppliers and sub contractors (See the Florida Construction Lien Law link below).
- Avoid paying large sums of money up front. A typical arrangement used by reputable contractors is one-third paid in advance, one-third paid halfway through the job, and one-third paid upon completion of the job. Before making the final payment, make sure that all required inspections have taken place and that all permits have been closed.
Complaint/License Search Links:
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