After a damaging storm, it can be hard to find a contractor who will repair your home right away. Although it's tempting to rush into a contract with the first available builder or handyman, it's very important to take the time and check their license.

Whether you're doing a small repair or a complete home remodel, you'll need to enter into the relationship with your contractor eyes wide open.

First of all, meet the contractor on site. Have a complete set of questions ready to ask. Make sure to interview more than one contractor and compare their estimates to see if the work, materials, schedule and pricing are alike. If they're very different, be sure to ask why. This may help you discover any underlying problems that go unnoticed by other contractors.

Interview Checklist

• Ask to see the contractor's state-issued license and write down the number, then visit Contractor's License Reference Site to verify that the license is current and active.
• Check with your local building official about certification guidelines.
• Ask for references. Licensed contractors should be happy to provide you with names and contact information for recent customers.
• Get written estimates from several contractors that include all costs and a completion date.
• Beware of contractors who promise to be the fastest and the cheapest, since it can result in poor quality or unfinished work.
• Get a written description of the work being done, including a schedule and the materials that will be used.
• Check that the contractors you hire are fully insured.
• Ask for a firm completion date, including cleanup.
• Ask for a warranty agreement that guarantees the work for a specified period of time and provides for necessary repairs.

The time you take to hire the right contractor will pay for itself in safe, reliable repairs and peace of mind.

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