Use caution while hiring contractors after Hurricane Irma

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Better Business Bureau is urging caution in selecting contractors to do repair work after Hurricane Irma.

Many people have now finished their cleanup work after the storm. They’re now beginning the process of repairing the damage left behind. That means doing your homework to make sure you don’t get ripped off by whichever person or company you choose to do the work.

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One of the biggest things to look out for, according to the BBB, is someone going door to door soliciting your work.

The Better Business Bureau urges people needing work to start by making a list of trustworthy, local contractors that specialize in the work you need done. From there, get three to four quotes from contractors on the cost to complete the work.

Ensure any contract or quote specifies the price, the work being done, time frame, and ask for a copy of their current certificate of insurance.

Some things to look out for:

  • A contractor trying to pressure into hiring them on the spot. Some will tell you the price will change if you don’t accept immediately.
  • A company that asks for you to pay for the job in advance- a good rule, according to the BBB is to never give more than 1/3 of the cost up front.
  • Make sure your insurance company has approved all repairs before final payment.


If you have any questions about a company you are considering, you can always look them up on the Better Business Bureau website or check their licensing with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

For tips to avoid unlicensed contractors, review tips from the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America

"As a Floridian myself, we know all too well the damage caused by a major storm, like Hurricane Irma, can be very overwhelming and can cause anxiety when dealing with how to go about hiring a vendor to help repair or clean up the damage to your property, whether it be your home, business or vehicle,” PCI Florida Regional Manager Logan McFaddin said.