Released by the Better Business Bureau
While making repairs to your home or business, the Better Business Bureau reminds you that any repair work performed should be completed by a licensed professional. They have offered the following suggestions before starting repairs:
- Contact your insurance adjuster immediately.
- Start seeking out current replacement costs for items you’ll be including in your claim rather than depending solely on historical costs.
- Document the damage to your property and possessions thoroughly; take pictures or video, if possible.
- Make any minor repairs that you can do safely to minimize further damage to your home. If your home is unlivable, contact your utility company to turn off your water and gas or electric services.
- Do not make any permanent repairs until you get approval from your insurance company.
- Beware of contractors who claim to be insurance claim specialists and may ask you to sign an agreement to allow them to contact your insurance company and seek approval of repairs for you.
- Check to make sure any contractors you are considering hiring are properly licensed and have up-to-date workers compensation and liability insurance.
- Do not hand over an insurance check to a contractor for repairs prior to work being started.
Disaster victims should never feel pressured to make a decision by an unknown contractor. Start with trust and look for the BBB Accredited Business Seal. For reliable information, lists of BBB Accredited Businesses by industry and BBB Business Profiles you can trust on local businesses, visit www.bbb.org Always verify a contractor’s license by visiting www.myfloridalicense.org, calling (850) 487-1395 or by downloading the free DBPR mobile app.
For more tips and resources visit www.bbb.org/florida-hurricane-guide.