BBB tips on how to recover from flooding

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas (ValleyCentral) — With many residents recovering from the heavy rainfall and flood waters across the Valley, homeowners are worried about the flood damages done to their homes.

The Better Business Bureau advises homeowners to be aware when choosing businesses and contractors to help with repairs.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, one inch of water in a home can cause more than $25,000 worth of damage.

The BBB advises those who may be overwhelmed with the cleanup process of a natural disaster to first check their insurance. Whether you rent or own a home, checking your insurance for flood damage may help alleviate repair costs by filing a claim.

However, flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners or renters insurance policies. In high-risk flood areas, homes and businesses are required by law to obtain flood insurance.

The BBB advises to not make permanent repairs on their residence before getting approval from your insurance as you may not be fully reimbursed for repairs made without approval.

BBB reminds the public to document any and all damages that occurred due to the natural disaster event and send them to your insurance company.

Before settling with a contractor for repairs, it is advised to get multiple opinions and quotes from different contractors.

While searching for a contractor, be aware of high-pressure sales tactics and "less than trustworthy business research company profiles," and make sure to ask for proof of liability, workers compensation and licensing.

"Verify the contractor has the correct license to do work in your state," the BBB said in a release. "This protects you in case something happens while working on your property."

Most importantly, when getting different opinions from different contractors, be aware of scams, such as door-to-door workers that claim to have leftover materials, a contractor that shows up unannounced, and businesses without a local address.

Before hiring, make sure to have everything in writing and documented. Always ask for a clearly written, detailed proposal that breaks down into separate line items that describe the following:

• The type of material being used, manufacturer, and color
• Scope of work to be done, including material and labor costs
• Who is responsible for repairing/replacing exterior landscape or interior finishes that are damaged during the course of the work? Make sure that your contract contains language addressing who is responsible for any damage that occurs due to the job.
• Approximate starting and completion dates
• Payment procedures
• Length of warranty and what is covered, e.g., workmanship, water leakage, etc.
• Who will haul away the old materials and project waste? Is there an extra charge for this service?

The BBB also advises to never pay in full for all repairs in advance, avoid paying in cash and use a credit card if possible. Be sure the contract specifies a payment schedule, and a final payment should be made only after the work is complete and subcontractors have been paid.