Take your time hiring a contractor, but do not wait to address
water damage (such as removing carpet and sheetrock, so that mold
does not accumulate-just be sure to photograph everything for
insurance and FEMA claims first).
Ask friends and family for referrals.
Check the Better Business Bureau and other resources in your
area to verify that they are licensed and don't have poor
reviews.
Ask for references, both written letters and phone numbers of
satisfied customers that you can call and speak with yourself to
verify they are trustworthy.
Get more than one bid on the work you need done.
Always get any bid in writing.
Ask about the warranties offered and get any warranties in
writing.
Hire a local contractor or professional.
Hire a contractor that is bonded and insured and
licensed/registered to perform work in your city.
Ask for copies of the contractor's general liability insurance
declarations page and keep a copy for your records.
Ask for a copy of the contractor's bond, if one is required by
your city.
Check with the appropriate department in your city to determine
whether the contractor is registered to perform work in your city
(if required).
Contact your city and determine whether a permit is required
for the work that is being done at your home.
Make sure that your contractor obtains a local building permit,
if required, for the specific work being done.
Ask for a copy of the permit if one is required to perform the
work in your city.
Get bids, contracts, and repair plans in writing and keep
copies for at least two years after the repairs are concluded.
Ask the contractor to provide a lien waiver for subcontractors
before starting the job if they plan to use subcontractors.
With a lien waiver the contractor will remain responsible for
paying their subcontractor, and the subcontractor will not be able
to sustain a lien on your home to be paid by a contractor who fails
to pay them.