Homeowners coping with storm damage are being warned not to be ripped off by unscrupulous contractors. Disaster officials say the best way to avoid contractors scams is to get written estimates before making a contract.
Then, if you’re unhappy with the work or the contractor stops returning your calls, you can file a complaint with state or local agencies that protect homeowners. These agencies can help you recover your money or put the contractor’s business or license in jeopardy.
Be Wary of Unscrupulous Contractors
If you’re visiting Atlanta, it is important to be wary of unscrupulous contractors. They may be trying to scam you out of money or get you to pay for work that isn’t completed.
It is also important to know that Georgia has some of the weakest tenant protection laws in the nation. This means that landlords can disregard health and safety concerns, charge excessive fees, and quickly evict their tenants who fall behind on rent.
Moreover, if you are looking for a contractor, it is best to check their online reviews before hiring them. These reviews can help you gauge the professionalism and quality of their work.
It is also a good idea to ask your friends or relatives who have used a contractor in the past. These people can recommend a contractor who has performed great services in the past.
Check the Contractor’s License
If you are considering hiring a contractor, make sure to check their license and insurance. This will give you the peace of mind that they are legally and ethically operating their business.
In Georgia, all contractors must obtain a license before they perform any job worth more than $2,500. The licensing process is regulated by the State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors.
Those who want to be licensed as a general contractor must complete an application packet and submit it with proof of insurance, a background check affidavit, and a $200 fee. It is also required that they obtain a $25,000 contractor bond, which will be placed on their license when approved by the State Licensing Board.
This is an expensive and lengthy process, but it will give you the peace of mind that you are working with a reputable company. It is well worth the investment if you are serious about your construction business.
Check the Contractor’s Insurance
It’s best to check the contractor’s insurance credentials before signing a contract. This will prevent you from being hit with unexpected repair costs, property damage and lawsuits.
There are several ways to verify your contractor’s insurance, including asking for a certificate of insurance and calling their insurance agent. This will tell you if they have liability coverage, the aforementioned insurance lingo and possibly even workers’ compensation.
For the best coverage, we recommend a comprehensive general liability policy that covers both your business and your employees. This should also be combined with a comprehensive workers’ compensation policy, which protects you from employee claims if someone is injured on your job site. The team at Ginsberg Agency can help you determine which policies are right for your business. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote. You’ll be glad you did! We’re proud to be a top-rated Georgia contractor insurance provider. Have your questions answered by an experienced team member.
Check the Contractor’s Reputation
The reputation of a contractor affects your overall home improvement experience. This includes the quality of their work and their ability to resolve any issues that may arise.
A reputable contractor will be happy to provide references from their past customers. These will tell you if they were satisfied with the contractor’s work and whether they would recommend them to other homeowners.
Asking for referrals can also help you avoid contractors who are not reputable or honest. You can also search for reviews on websites such as Google and Yelp.
Check to see if the contractor has any complaints filed against them with the local consumer protection agency. These complaints are usually not proof that the contractor did something wrong, but they can give you an idea of the level of professionalism and customer service they offer.
You can also check on a contractor’s payment history to make sure they are paying their bills on time. This will ensure that you never have to worry about your money being stolen.