Hiring Contractors? The More You Know...

In the aftermath of a major storm, many insureds will need to hire contractors. Sadly, scammers target families at their most vulnerable times — when work needs to be performed quickly.

Before you commit to any home repair, here are some steps to help determine if your contractor is legitimate.

• Check references
• Get quotes from more than one contractor
• See that they are adequately insured if a worker is injured on the job. If not, then you may be held liable. Ask for a current copy of the contractor's worker’s compensation and liability insurance policies and verify that they are active.
• See if the contractor has the proper credentials for the work they will perform, by visiting the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) at www.elicense.ct.gov
• If someone is performing tree trimming or related work, they must have an Arborist License through the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

The State of Connecticut Insurance Department has put out a Fraud Alert Bulletin with the Following Suggestions

Avoid doing business with any person or entity that:

• Requires that you pay in cash, by wire transfer, or in any form of untraceable payment;
• Refuses to offer you a contract in writing (contracts are required by law in the State of Connecticut);
• Offers you an incredibly low cost for work that needs to be completed, under the condition that you commit immediately;
• Knocks on your door, or otherwise solicits business specifically from you (instead of you going to them);
• Doesn’t provide references; and
• Will not provide proof of their credentials.

 Excerpted from CT Department of Insurance Consumer Alert
Click here to read the full bulletin.