Use Discretion When Hiring Professional Contractors

Use discretion when hiring professional contractors

Consumers should make sure to use reputable contractors.

The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America is reminding homeowners to exercise caution when hiring professionals to fix their homes.

Christopher Hackett, director of personal lines for PCI, said individuals posing as expert contractors often prey upon people whose homes experienced nature's wrath.

"As the rebuilding process gets underway, unlicensed contractors and scam artists may be looking to cash in on your misfortune," said Hackett. "Homeowners will save themselves a lot of time, money and frustration by taking the time to check the credentials of the businesses and individuals that they hire to repair your property."

To help homeowners avoid being victimized, PCI advises them to make sure that they get everything in writing from their contractor, that they never pay for work up front if a written contract isn't provided, and to be wary of contractors who try to rush or force them into a project that they don't want.

For more advice on hiring professional contractors from PCI, click here.