Property Damage from Storms

Last night, Georgia and Alabama was hit by a series of strong storms. The resulting loss of life and loss of property will bring out the best of people and the worst of people.

The “Best” will provide assistance to their family, friends and strangers. They will jump in to ensure that the suffering is minimalized.

The “Worst” will take advantage of the storm victims suffering. They will spring into action even before the “Best of People” arrive. The Worst will see an opportunity to profit from this suffering. In many cases, the Worst will make the losses even greater.

If you’ve suffered injury, loss of life, or loss of property, look first to your family and friends for support. When that stranger shows up at your door offering to repair your damaged property don’t jump at this offer.

If you have insurance, call your insurance agent. Your insurance agent can help with tree removal from your home; help with damage assessment; help with covering your roof to prevent additional damage; help with finding you a safe place to stay while your home is being repaired; and help with other expenses. That’s what a good insurance agent should do.

Ask your friends, your family, your insurance agent, the Better Business Bureau, and other trusted business leaders for leads on reputable contractors to help you rebuild your life. You want a business that has a proven track record. You want a business in your local area. You want a business that will be there for the long haul.

You don’t want a business that is out of state. You don’t want a business that is there today to take your money but is gone tomorrow with unfinished work.
When talking to a contractor, ask for their references. Make the contractor put their promises in writing. A written contract is your protection against most frauds. Make sure the contract covers the scope of work, the specific materials that will be used; the contract should cover what will happen if additional damage is discovered requiring more work, the contract should set out a reasonable payment schedule will be. The more specific the contract the better.

Under no circumstances should you hire a contractor who promises to accept whatever the insurance company pays. A good contractor will give you an estimate on the work and materials needed. In fact, their estimate may cover items that the insurance company adjuster misses.

Before signing any contract, ask the contractor to see their insurance information. A good contractor will provide you with proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. A good contractor will provide you with a declarations page itemizing their insurance limits. Double check this information by calling the insurer or their agent to make sure that the insurance is still in effect and has not been cancelled.

Under no circumstances should you make a large down payment to the contractor before work begins.

Finally, if you believe that your damages were caused by the negligence of another, contact an attorney to discuss your options.