As Western North Carolina begins the long road to recovery following the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene, the importance of rebuilding homes and communities cannot be overstated. Unfortunately, in times of crisis, unscrupulous scammers often appear, posing as legitimate contractors to exploit vulnerable homeowners. At Red Tree Builders, we want to help our community avoid these risks and make sure that only qualified professionals are trusted with the task of rebuilding your home.

 How to Avoid Contractor Scams

Here are a few essential tips to ensure you hire a reputable contractor for your home repair or rebuilding needs:

1. Research the Contractor

Before you commit to any contractor, do your homework. Start by confirming that the business has a permanent address and a solid reputation. A trustworthy contractor should have a history of successful projects and a commitment to their community. Look for customer reviews and ask around locally to get a sense of the contractor’s work.

2. Get a Complete, Written Contract

A reliable contractor will never shy away from providing a detailed, clearly written contract. This document should outline the scope of work, materials, timeline, and cost estimates. Make sure you understand everything in the contract before signing it, and avoid contractors who pressure you to sign quickly without proper explanations.

3. Ask for References

Always ask for references from previous clients. Reputable contractors will be happy to share this information, allowing you to hear firsthand about the quality of their work and their professionalism. Take the time to contact the references to ensure that they were satisfied with the contractor’s work.

4. Avoid Paying Cash Upfront

While it’s common to pay a deposit for home repairs, never pay the full amount upfront, especially in cash. Scammers often request large amounts of money in advance and then disappear without completing the work. Instead, negotiate a payment plan that aligns with the project’s progress, ensuring you only pay for work that has been completed.

5. Consult Your Local Home Builders Association (HBA)

For a list of reliable contractors in your area, contact your local Home Builders Association (HBA). They can provide recommendations for trusted builders who have been vetted and meet industry standards. This extra step of validation ensures that the contractor you hire is held to a high level of accountability.

 Supporting Our Community

At Red Tree Builders, we are committed to helping our community recover from the impacts of Hurricane Helene with integrity and quality craftsmanship. As a local builder with deep roots in Western North Carolina, we urge you to take the time to research contractors and avoid becoming a victim of post-disaster scams. Together, we can rebuild stronger, safer homes for the future.

If you’re in need of expert assistance with your home repairs or rebuild, don’t hesitate to reach out to Brandon via email at brandon.bryant@alairhomes.com or call 828-712-1518. We are here to help you navigate the road to recovery. We will take on projects as our capacity allows, with a priority given to our past and current clients.