🚨 Run From These Red Flags 🚩

🚨 Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring a Contractor

When your home has been damaged — whether from a storm, fire, flood, or other unexpected disaster, your first instinct is to get things fixed fast. Unfortunately, moments like these are when homeowners are most vulnerable to shady contractors looking to take advantage of the chaos. Whether you’re making minor repairs or managing a full rebuild, here are key red flags to look out for when hiring a contractor — especially in the stressful aftermath of a natural disaster.

 

⚠️ 1. No License or Insurance

If a contractor can’t produce proof of licensing or liability insurance, that’s a major red flag. Not only are they operating outside the law in many states, but you could be left financially responsible if something goes wrong on your property.

Always ask for and verify:

• Contractor’s license number

• Proof of liability and workers’ compensation insurance

• Business registration (if applicable)

💰 2. Requests for Large Upfront Payments

No deposit down to begin work is IDEAL, however some deposit is standard. BEWARE, If a contractor asks for a large percentage upfront (especially more than 30–50%), be cautious. This could be a sign they don’t plan to complete the job… or even start it.

 

✅ Pro Tip: Make payments in stages tied to completed work milestones, NEVER all at once.

📝 3. No Written Contract

A handshake deal or verbal promise is never enough. A trustworthy contractor will provide a clear, written contract that outlines:

• Scope of work

• Materials used

• Estimated timeline

• Payment schedule

• Warranty details

If they avoid giving you a contract or say it’s “not necessary,” walk away. In fact RUN

❌ 4. High-Pressure Tactics

“If you don’t sign today, the price goes up tomorrow.” Sound familiar? High-pressure sales tactics are a huge red flag. A legitimate contractor should give you time to review estimates, compare other bids, and make a confident decision — not rush you into a deal you may regret.

🌪️ 5. Post-Disaster Contractor Red Flags

After a natural disaster, the urgency to repair your home can make you vulnerable — and unfortunately, dishonest contractors know that.

Here’s what to watch for specifically in post-disaster situations:

• Promises to waive your deductible: This is a common tactic and often illegal — it can even put your insurance claim at risk.

• No references or online presence: Reputable contractors should have reviews, a website, or referrals you can verify.

• “We’ll work directly with your insurance company” — without giving details: Some scammers use this line to justify inflated costs or fraudulent billing. Please note, There are perfectly reputable & honest contractors who work with you and your insurance company to get them the measurements & quotes they need to proceed. So just make sure that you are in the loop when the two parties are in communication.

Take your time, do your research, and remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

🛡️ Protect Yourself: What You Should Do

• Get at least 2–3 estimates from licensed contractors.

• Check their reputation on the Better Business Bureau, Google reviews, or with local building departments.

• Avoid paying in full until the work is completed.

• Keep all paperwork, receipts, and communications.

✅ Final Thoughts

In times of stress and urgency, you deserve peace of mind — not added problems. Hiring the right contractor is crucial to restoring your home safely and legally. Watch for red flags, trust your instincts, and always prioritize transparency and professionalism.