How To Hire A Home Restoration Contractor

The best contractors are highly sought after and it can be difficult to get on their schedules. That’s why, when you need a home restoration contractor for major repairs after a disaster, it’s tempting to just go with whomever you can get the fastest.

Resist falling into that trap. Disasters and home repairs are stressful enough, but a contractor who’s unsuited for your restoration job could make matters even worse. The person you hire will have a lasting impact on your home. You need someone with the right kind of expertise — the kind that matches exactly what you need for your home restoration project.

Here’s how to choose the right contractor for the job, even when you’re stressed out, overwhelmed, and pressed for time.

Seek out specialized knowledge.

Most homeowners don’t know this, but the contractor who built your home isn’t always the best choice for repairs and remodeling. That’s because he or she may only have experience in building new homes. Home restoration repairs require unique experience, skills, and equipment.

Restoration work is more involved than you might think. Far beyond carpet cleaning or house cleaning, it may require structural repairs, engineering, or other highly specialized work. In the case of roof damage, for example, repairs may also involve water damage mitigation or inspections to ensure that hidden water damage doesn’t exist. Merely repairing the hole in the roof isn’t enough to prevent mold and mildew growth if water has already gotten in.

Hire a contractor who has experience in insurance-related repairs.

If you’ve had a home disaster, chances are very high that you’ll be working with an insurance company. A contractor who has experience with the claims process will be a huge asset during your repair or restoration work. They’ll have a better understanding of how the work gets covered as well as knowledge about the requirements set forth by your insurance provider.

Thoroughly vet potential home repair contractors.

When you have a home disaster, it’s natural to feel a sense of urgency, but it’s important to take time with the contractor selection process. That includes verifying a number of details:

• Vet their skills and experience, particularly experience in managing insurance-related claims.
• Make sure they’re licensed, both in your local municipality as well as in their specialty. You can check with your local building authorities to ensure a contractor’s licensing is up to date.
• Check their insurance coverage and make sure it’s in full effect. Go beyond getting a copy of the contractor’s insurance paperwork and call his or her insurance provider.
• Verify worker’s compensation credentials. Again, take the time to confirm that this coverage is in effect — otherwise, you may be responsible if workers are injured while on your property.

No time to vet contractors? We have you covered.

Thanks to our nationwide network of prequalified contractors — including professional home restoration contractors with insurance claim experience — you don’t have to wait to find a contractor who has the skills and credentials you need. To receive a free, no-obligation estimate, enter your ZIP code above now and you’ll hear back soon from a qualified contractor.