Extension for Real Life

After a Flood: 4 Tips for Hiring Contractors

Video by Michaela Parker

When you’re ready to hire a contractor to repair or rebuild property damaged by flooding, keep these tips in mind to help avoid being scammed.

1. Always ask to see identification.
2. Check to see if the Mississippi Better Business Bureau has complaints against contractors you are considering hiring.
3. Do not pay a contractor in full before the work is done. Be wary of one who demands you pay in cash only.
4. Check signage on vehicles for local addresses and phone numbers.

While it’s tempting to try and fix everything yourself, some jobs really should be done by a professional, especially large jobs where mold is involved. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, if mold covers more than 10 square feet, cleanup should be handled by a professional. Learn more about when to call in a professional on their website.

If you do decide to hire a professional for mold cleanup, choose a contractor who is specially trained for mold cleanup and check their references.

For more information about hiring contractors without getting scammed, read Extension information sheet 1700, “Disaster Relief: Avoiding Fraud and Deception.”

We have resources on our Disaster Response website.

Read our article, After disasters, beware of frauds, scammers.