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If your home was destroyed by a hurricane,
wildfire or other disaster, be cautious.
Unfortunately, there are dishonest service providers that prey on
disaster victims. They know that people who have lost their homes and
valuables may not be thinking clearly. If you have suffered this type of
loss, don’t make any rash decisions. Talk to your insurance agent, who
may recommend service providers in your area.
Here are some basic guidelines for hiring service providers:
Roofers and
builders
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Don't be rushed into signing a contract with any
company. Instead, collect business cards and get written estimates
for the proposed job.
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Beware of building contractors that encourage you
to spend a lot of money on temporary repairs. Payments for temporary
repairs are covered as part of the total settlement. If you pay a
contractor a large sum for a temporary repair job, you may not have
enough money for permanent repairs. In most cases, you should be
able to make the temporary repairs yourself. Ask your insurance
agent. And remember to keep receipts.
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Investigate the track record of any roofer,
builder or contractor that you consider hiring. Look for
professionals that have a solid reputation in your community. You
can call your Better Business Bureau for help. Also, get references
and never give anyone a deposit until after you have thoroughly
researched their background.
A common fraud scheme is for a so-called "contractor"
to convince a homeowner that a large deposit must be provided before
repair work can begin. Frequently, the job will be started, but not
completed. Unfortunately, these con artists are never seen or heard from
again.
Public adjusters and attorneys
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Don't make any rash decisions about hiring
someone to handle your claim. Be especially wary of individuals who
go door-to-door soliciting business in the aftermath of a
catastrophe. Most importantly, don't let anyone scare you into
signing a contract. You don't want to be victimized by someone who
comes into town, hoping to make a fast buck. You could end up
forfeiting a significant portion of your insurance dollars.
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Before hiring a public adjuster or an attorney,
try to settle your claim directly with your insurance company. Your
insurer provides an adjuster at no charge to you. Ask your insurance
agent or company representative to help you with your claim and
don't be afraid to ask questions. If you decide to work directly
with your insurer, you still have the right to hire a third-party
professional to help you.
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If your claim is complicated and you want to hire
a public adjuster or attorney, make sure that person is qualified to
handle your case. Ask your friends, relatives or business associates
for the names of well-regarded professionals in your community.
Also, call your state department of insurance regarding a public
adjuster, and your state or county bar association about a
prospective attorney.
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Understand that you will have to pay a public
adjuster 15 percent and an attorney as much as 30 percent of your
total claim settlement.
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