Need some Reliable Contractors

More than anything people need to check and make sure that whoever they are looking into is licenced, insured, and preferably bonded. If someone knocks on your door offering estimates, ask to see licence and current insurance before they even write an estimate.

Get references then cross check them with the state.

Louisiana State Board of Contractors:

lslbc.louisiana.gov

quote:

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Greystone and was flooded.

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How bad was Greystone? I had a friend that was suppose to move into his new house this past weekend.

LINK

Whichever contractor you choose make sure the check with the better business bureau and/or angielist LINK /

There will be a lot of fly by night guys trying to rob you blind. Don't be afraid to ask for referrals and make sure you have a finish date negotiated. I can see a lot of these "contractors" trying to man multiple jobs w/o having the resources to do so.

This process is going to be a nightmare for those trying to save a few bucks.

This is a lot of info, but good:
--anyone who performs a job over $7500 must be licensed
--a contractor licensed in another state must still be licensed through the Louisiana Licensing Board for Contractors
--Out of state contractors can be very difficult to pursue if you have problems
--Get an estimate in writing...the contractor (not YOU) should sign the estimate
--the estimate should indicate that it is for the full scope of work
--get at least 3 estimates in writing
--ask for references; specifically ask for a reference to a job where there was a problem and the contractor fixed it
--base payments on performance, not time schedules
--get a waiver of liens for materials or subcontractors so that your project is not encumbered if those payments are not made
--take pictures of the contractor you hire, his license, his vehicle and license plates, etc.
--make sure the contract is in the name of the person who holds the license
--have an estimated start and completion date
--include the total dollar amount to be paid upon completion
--detail how change orders will be handled
--detail all materials, brands, etc.
--warranty the materials and workmanship
--never tell a contractor what your budget is
--never pay a down payment of more than 10%
--never pay cash
--never accept oral promises
--never pay for construction not completed
--contractors will not solicit your business...a reputable contractor does not need to knock on your door
--reputable contractors will not ask for lump sums of money up front
--reputable contractors will not ask you to pull your own permits
--beware of contractors who only provide a cell phone number...get a local address and phone number

A huge problem in disasters like this is simply supply and demand. Even the best contractors will be extended and will be working with crews that they aren't as familiar with or maybe don't even know at all. Just stay on top of everything. At the end of the day if a contractor screws you, there is very little that you can do. You will always be out of time, and likely money too. So stay on top of it and never just let the job go on autopilot. Even the best guys can end up with a shite crew who does shoddy work. Go to the site regularly.

Check the contractor's board page for not only licensure, but also check to see if they have previous violations.

Best of luck.

Property One Group construction in Prairieville LINK