Flood Victims Urged To Be Cautious When Hiring Contractors 

"Scam artists are often ready to seize the opportunity to take advantage of the misfortune of others," David Mullins, Division of Labor commissioner, warns.

The DOL is offering the following suggestions when searching for and hiring a contractor to perform work on your property:

·         Use reliable, licensed contractors: Check with the Attorney General’s office (800-368-8808) to make sure the firm has no outstanding consumer complaints filed against it.

·         Validate contractor’s license: Do not take the contractor’s word that he has a valid contractor’s license. Check with the West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board (304-558-7890 or www.wvlabor.org/contractsearch.cfm) to verify the status of a contractor’s license.

·         Check references and credentials: Call former customers who had similar work done to see if they were satisfied with the job. Ask for proof of applicable training and experience.

·         Get a written estimate: Be sure to obtain a written estimate for the job and read the fine print. Compare the services and prices of several reputable contractors before making a final decision. Hire local contractors if possible.

·         Know the time frame: Be sure to get approximate start and completion dates on the contract. Home Improvement Rule requires that the contract include either an approximate complete date or an obvious disclosure that completion dates will not be provided. 

·         Proof of insurance: Make sure the contractor carries general liability insurance and workers' compensation. If the contractor is not insured, the homeowner may be liable for accidents that occur on the property or to the house/building.

·         Ask for a written contract: A complete contract should clearly state all the tasks to be performed, all associated costs and the payment schedule. Never sign a blank contract or one with blank spaces. Have a lawyer review the contract if substantial costs are involved. Keep a copy of the signed contract.

·         Written guarantees: If the contractor provides any guarantees, they should be written into the contract clearly stating what is guaranteed, who is responsible for the guarantee and how long the guarantee is valid.

·         Pay by check or credit card: Avoid on-the-spot cash payments; the safest route is to write a check or pay by credit card. Never sign over your insurance check to the contractor.

·         Canceling a contract: Canceling a contract should be done within three business days of signing. Be sure to follow the agreements stated in the cancellation clauses. Send the notification by registered mail.

·         Trust your instincts: Avoid door-to-door crews or contractors that drive unmarked or out-of state vehicles. A reputable and professional contractor will not solicit business door-to-door.Page 2 of 2 - Flood victims urged to be cautious when hiring contractors

Consumers who have problems with a contractor or have been victims of fraud are urged to contact the Consumer Protection Division of the West Virginia Attorney General's office at 800-368-8808.

"If you take your time, deal cautiously with contractors and call with questions, the recovery process will be a positive one," said Mullins.

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