Avoiding Scams During Hurricane Recovery, Wilmington NC
Navigating the aftermath of a hurricane can be overwhelming because the extensive damage often leaves property in need of urgent repair. Your swift action restoring your property is crucial, but it is equally vital to protect yourself and your home. Consider these valuable suggestions to safeguard your interests as you address hurricane-related damages:
• Collaborate with Your Insurance Provider: Just as hurricanes sweep in unexpectedly, so do the challenges of dealing with their aftermath. Contacting your insurance company post-hurricane is akin to seeking shelter from the storm’s chaos. Many homeowners’ insurance policies have coverage for hurricane-induced damages. Engaging your insurance company can alleviate some of your burdens. By clarifying your insurance company’s responsibility in addressing the damages, you are working to transfer the restoration liability from your shoulders to theirs.
• If You Need to Hire a Vendor or Contractor, Obtain Multiple Estimates: Different vendors and contractors may offer diverse solutions for repair. If you need to hire a contractor for the repairs, obtain multiple estimates and do not settle for the initial offer. Casting a wider net by obtaining estimates from various vendors and contractors serves two purposes. First, it ensures you obtain the best deal for the restoration work. Second, should a legal dispute arise, having multiple estimates on hand can aid in calculating potential damages more accurately.
• Select a Reputable Vendor or Contractor: A vendor’s or contractor’s work can vary widely. While cost-effectiveness is important, it is equally essential to research potential vendors and contractors before making a decision. Research online reviews from previous clients to gauge their reliability and competence. For more substantial projects, inquire about the contractor's licensing status. North Carolina requires that any general contractor working on contracts in excess of $30,000 obtain a license from the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors. Additionally, assess the vendor’s or contractor's stability by considering their local presence and longevity in the field as contractors who are new to the area tend to be more risky.
• Document Everything in Writing: Document the restoration journey with precision and in writing. A comprehensive contract that precisely outlines the scope of work, deadlines, and payment schedules is necessary. Carefully review the contract before signing. This written agreement serves as a reference point in case of misunderstandings or disputes, helping to establish the original terms and potential damages.
• Withhold Payment if Progress Stalls: The last thing you need is a vendor or contractor seeking payment for incomplete work. Instances where vendors or contractors request additional payments without fulfilling their obligations are unfortunately common. Until the agreed-upon work is satisfactorily completed as per the contract, refrain from making further payments. Holding off on payments until the vendor or contractor meets their commitments helps maintain a fair balance and encourages accountability.
Adhering to these hurricane-inspired strategies empowers you to navigate the tumultuous waters of post-hurricane property repair. Despite your best efforts, not all storms can be avoided. Should you encounter the signs of deception or feel trapped in a whirlwind of scams, promptly alert the relevant authorities and contact the NC Consumer Protection Hotline at 919-716-6000. Just as communities come together after a hurricane, so too can individuals band together to weather any legal storms that may arise.