Thousands of homeowners across the Carolinas will need to repair or rebuild their homes following Hurricane Florence
Residents in the Carolinas are just beginning the long recovery process after Hurricane Florence dumped more than 3 feet of rain in some areas, causing massive flooding.
For many, a crucial first step is to find the right contractor.
Early estimates suggest that the damage from Florence’s wind and flooding could total between $1.7 billion and $4.6 billion. That figure could grow as flooding persists throughout the region.
Timing is critical for these residents. They could soon face a critical housing shortage. Because of the low supply of rental housing in this part of the U.S. before the storm rolled in, displaced people in North and South Carolina could face extreme difficulty finding somewhere to live while their homes are repaired.
The first step most homeowners should take is to contact their insurance company, so that an adjustor can come out to assess the damage and to determine what funds they will receive. After that, consumers will need to find someone to make the repairs — and choosing the wrong company can be a costly mistake. Here’s what to look for when you hire a contractor after a major storm:
- Be prepared to forego multiple bids — or even pay to get a bid
- Determine whether the contractor is legitimate
- If possible, choose a local contractor
- Never agree to pay for a project upfront or in large installments
- Look for a company that is good at communicating
