CRBA Message to Homeowners Regarding Disaster Recovery

Read these important warning before you sign on the dotted line

1. When repairing disaster damage, beware of unscrupulous or unlicensed contractors. INTERVIEW ALL CONTRACTORS by using our INTERVIEW FORM.
2. Don’t rush into repairs, no matter how badly they’re needed. 
3. Don’t just hire the first contractor who comes along or be victimized by someone making a door-to-door presentation offering to do repair jobs on the spot.
4. Proof of insurance from the insurance carrier for not only liability, but for workmen’s compensation.  This should be verified with the insurance company issuing certificates as we have heard of bogus certificates being circulated.  The public need to know to not just ask and take the word of the contractor or a copy of his certificate, but to call the company and verify that it is in effect.  Some unscrupulous contractors are giving out phone numbers that are not legitimate. 
5. Consumers should get addresses, telephone numbers and drivers’ license numbers of all contractors effecting repairs of their homes.  A good idea is to take a photo of the contractor and his vehicle showing the license plate number.
6. Make sure contractors are properly licensed.  The out-of-state contractors are required to register with the La. State Licensing Board for Contractors and can be verified by going to www.lslbc.louisiana.gov or calling 225-765-2301.
7. Get a signed contract on all work to be performed on their property which should include a price for doing the work, a scope of work, addresses and signatures of the homeowner and contractor and telephone numbers at which all parties may be reached.  If the contract is for temporary work only, this should be stated on the contract.  Don’t sign anything until you fully understand the terms.
8. Building material and supply dealers are not likely to issue credit to out-of-state contractors unless they are well known in the state they originate from and have perfect credit.  To avoid paying up front for materials that are never delivered, homeowners should consider purchasing the materials themselves directly from local dealers.  Doing so would guarantee the quality of the materials used in the repair work.
9. If contractor is purchasing material, homeowners should require a copy of the paid invoices and/or lien waivers for labor and materials for work performed on their property.

10. Should any of the above mentioned documentation be refused or not 
     provided, a RED FLAG should be raised in the homeowner’s mind.  A   
     reputable contractor will not hesitate to provide this information.  Know  
     your contractor and check out his references and documentation.

11. Down payment may be required, but is generally not more than 10% to
     25% of the total contract and should not be paid until all of the above
     documentation is received and verified.  Don’t let payments get ahead of
     the work.  Keep records of payments and don’t pay in cash.  The final
     payment should not be made until you are satisfied with the job and any
     required building inspections by the parish have been made and approved.

12. For questions or more help, contact CRBA at 225-769-7696 or call the
     Better Business Bureau at 346-5222.

Beware of FLY-BY-NIGHT CONTRACTORS

Louisiana residents are well aware of the impact of hurricanes and flooding and CRBA, LHBA, and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in Washington, DC wants to remind you about the dangers of unscrupulous contractors. 

Across the U. S, many people become victims of different natural disasters.  These natural disasters directly impact the US economy for billions of dollars annually. One of the untold costs associated with disasters are those loses due to fraud. 

Often “fly-by-night” contractors appear and further victimize the disaster victims by swindling them out of their precious and often limited resources. Here’s a warning that may save you from another disaster: unscrupulous contractors.

Some signs to remember that should make you see red:

• You’re told that on this job, a contract “won’t be necessary.”
• You’re asked to pay for the entire job “up front” — or pay cash to a salesperson instead of a check or money order to a company.
• You are confronted with scare tactics, intimidation or threats.
• You’re told you’ve been “chosen” as a demonstration project at a special, low price.
• You’re told a “special” low price is good only if you sign a contract today.
• The contractor won’t give you reference — or the references can’t be located.
• You can’t verify the contractor’s business address.