Here is some information we thought you might find helpful if you are dealing with making repairs to your home or rebuilding after the tornado.

  • NEVER PAY A CONTRACTOR FOR WORK NOT PERFORMED!!!  If the contractor requires money for supplies or other necessities, contact the supplier yourself and pay for the supplies rather then giving the money directly to the contractor.  Only pay the contractor for work that has been performed not for work that is to be performed.
  • Get the agreement between you and the contractor in writing and signed by by the homeowner and the contractor doing the work.  Make sure that all issues you are contracting for are in writing with a set price and a set completion date.  Also make sure all changes to the original scope of work are in writing with a set price that is signed by both the homeowner and the contractor
  • Consult your insurance company before allowing a contractor to perform any work the contractor has said will be covered by your insurance.
  • Ask your insurance company for a list of recommended contractors.
  • Ask to see the credentials of anyone who claims to represent your insurance company.
  • Be suspicious of contractors who approach you unsolicited.  There have been several roofing companies that have preyed on individuals by knocking on doors and soliciting business for hail or roof damage.  These companies tell the homeowners that they will work with their insurance company, request the homeowner to sign over the insurance check and run off.
  • Ask for proof that your contractor has both liability and worker’s compensation insurance, and ask for references.
  • Ask for proof that your contractor has the proper licenses and permits for the job.
  • Be suspicious of vendors who tell you that you will not have to pay your deductible.
  • Be leery of a contractor that promises it will handle your claim for you.
  • Hire a licensed home inspector or structural engineer to monitor the work and make sure the work is completed corrected and meets all building codes.

Make sure your contractor holds the correct licenses.  If you are having work done to your residence and the amount of work and materials is or exceeds $10,000.00, the individual must be licensed with the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board.  Also make sure that your contractor has obtained all proper permits from the city and/or county where your home is located.  The best way to do this is to contact the city or county you live in and check with the Building Official or Inspection Department to make confirm that the correct permits for your particular circumstances have been obtained.

Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board

800-304-0853 (Toll Free) or 334-242-2230 (Office) or visit their website at http://www.hblb.alabama.gov/Default.aspx

State of Alabama Plumbers and Gas Fitters Examing Board

205-945-4857 or visit their website at http://www.pgfb.state.al.us/

Alabama Electrical Contractors Board

334-269-9990 or visit their website at http://www.aecb.state.al.us/Default.aspx

Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any pending complaints against the contractor.

BBB of Central Alabama

205-558-2222 or visit their website at http://centralalabama.bbb.org