GHBA Offers Tips to Avoid Unscrupulous Contractors

In light of Houston’s recent bout of rainstorms, we wanted to take a moment and talk about the common but unfortunate practice of unscrupulous contractors taking advantage of homeowners during post-storm recovery periods.

It’s important for homeowners to protect themselves from the types of contractors and service companies that seem to come out of the woodwork at times like these. You may have already had the experience of a stranger coming to your door and recommending expensive repairs to your roof or siding, but before you sign a contract or give someone access to your home we want to share some recommendations. Greater Houston Builders Association CEO Toy Wood was on the radio back in March discussing this very topic, and during her interview she offered a host of tips for homeowners dealing with post-storm damage recovery. Give the interview a listen when you have a chance; you’ll find it here. In the meantime here are some of the highlights:

1. Take as many photos of the damage as you can. Document everything for insurance purposes, but the photos could come in handy for any number of reasons down the road.
2. Take finding a contractor seriously, just as you would when hiring another professional like a doctor or lawyer. Use the GHBA member directory to get started.
3. Always ask for and check references.
4. Find several candidates and interview them; choose the one you get along with the best. It’s more important than you think!
5. After a storm there can be a waiting period because contractors are very busy. This is also when that unscrupulous contractor comes around. Beware anyone who uses high-pressure tactics and/or asks for a large sum of money up front—especially if they approached you.
6. Get contracts in writing. If he or she doesn’t want to agree to a written contract, say goodbye.

In addition to the GHBA member directory, be sure to review their list of online disaster resources for Houstonians. It’s only July and there is plenty of hurricane season left to weather, so be prepared.

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