Hiring a Contractor for Repairs

After a flood, fire, or other catastrophe, your home needs repairs. Sometimes, the issues are small enough for homeowners to handle independently. But often, people need contractors to make their homes functional and comfortable again. 

A general contractor plays a critical role in any construction project, and it makes sense to select a professional carefully. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is the Role of a General Contractor?

A general contractor is similar to a construction manager. They oversee and manage a construction project. More than 505,000 of them work within the United States.[1] 

Your general contractor might hire subcontractor specialists (like electricians and plumbers) and supervise them. No matter how many people are at work on your house, your general contractor ensures the project meets your agreed timeline, is completed safely, and costs no more than you agreed to. 

Key Facts About Hiring a Contractor for Repairs 

What Services Does a General Contractor Offer? 

Years ago, contractors were generalists. Now, it’s common for contractors to specialize in one segment of the market.[2] Your general contractor may specialize in one specific type of repair needed after a successful homeowners insurance claim. 

Your contractor could specialize in any of the following:

• Fire-related repairs 
• Remodeling older homes 
• Water damage 
• Bathrooms and kitchens 

A general contractor doesn’t do this work. Instead, this professional gathers permits, schedules the work, hires subcontractors, and manages their progress. 

You might need subcontractors to help with things like painting, repairing windows, roofing, plumbing, and more. A general contractor handles all of these details for you. 

When Should You Use a General Contractor for Repairs?

Some home repair projects don’t require a general contractor’s help. But after a difficult homeowner insurance claim, you might need a bit more help to get your house back on track. 

These signs could indicate you need a general contractor: 

Your Project Is Large or Complex 

Some home repair projects are larger than others. The average homeowners claim for wind and hail is about $12,000.[3] The average claim for fire and lightning is about $83,000. If the project has several moving parts and needs multiple types of repairs, a general contractor could be helpful.

Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Will I need to hire a contractor to do the work, or can I tackle it myself? 
2. If I can’t do the work alone, how many different types of projects are there? 
3. Do I have the time and talent to handle this work?
4. Can I manage multiple subcontractors independently?

Your Repair Will Be Time-Consuming 

A simple broken window may take an afternoon to fix. But a living room filled with water from that broken window could require the replacement of your walls, flooring, underlying electrical, and more. A general contractor could ensure the work is done as quickly as possible. 

Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Can the work be completed in one day by one person?
2. Do I have the time to interview multiple subcontractors?
3. Can I take time away from work to answer questions?

Your Budget Allows for Extra Staff

After a covered event, your homeowners insurance company will assess the damage and offer a fee to repair or replace your belongings. Sometimes, that settlement is large enough to allow for outside help. Sometimes, the opposite is true. 

Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do I have the expertise to complete the project alone and save a little money?
2. Will my family be comfortable and safe if I do the work myself?
3. Can I afford a general contractor’s fee?

You Will Need Permits 

Larger construction projects typically require building permits. Without one, the work may not meet your local building code. When you try to sell your home, you could be forced to remove or replace items that don’t comply, and those repairs are rarely covered by home insurance policies. 

Very large projects might require multiple permits. For example, you might need permission to make electrical repairs and replace a furnace after a large fire. A general contractor can handle this essential step for you and ensure the work meets code requirements. 

Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Have I worked on building permit forms before?
2. Am I comfortable learning about permits?
3. Am I willing to supervise any inspections required to fulfill the permit?

9 Things to Consider When Hiring a Contractor for Repairs 

Whether you’re hiring a general contractor to supervise a large project or a subcontractor specialist to assist with one part of your repair, following a few practical tips is smart. Consider these:

1. Interview Several Candidates 

Don’t settle for the first contractor willing to work on your project. Interview several potential partners and compare them side by side before you make a final decision. Someone you may have overlooked at first glance could be perfect for your project. 

2. Select Licensed & Local Contractors

Ask any professional for proof of a local license as part of the interview process. Local contractors are familiar with your location’s building codes. And if something goes wrong, they’re easier to contact than someone living in another state or country. 

3. Confirm Insurance & Bonding Details 

In some states, like Oregon, contractors can’t get a license without proof of insurance that covers damage to your property and their employees.[4] Other states have looser guidelines. Ensure that the finalists you’re considering are both bonded and insured. 

4. Check References 

Your contractor should offer ample evidence of expertise. Some provide before-and-after photographs with testimonials, while others provide a list of prior clients you can call and chat with. Ensure that your contractor has a reputation for quality work. 

5. Ask for a Written Contract

It’s hard to compare candidates without a written scope of work, including a potential budget. Ensure that all of your contractors provide you with a legally binding contract for your review. Look for details about budget, timelines, disagreements, materials used, permits, and more. 

6. Avoid Paying Too Much Upfront 

The Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) says any required down payment should be minimal.[5] Beware of contractors asking for a large sum before they will get started. They could disappear with your money and do no work in return. 

7. Take Your Time 

Don’t allow a contractor to pressure you into making a decision before you’re ready to do so. Read the contracts, contact references, and think carefully before making a final selection. 

8. Keep All Paperwork 

Your signed contract, any written correspondence, and invoices should all remain part of your home’s record. Don’t throw anything away. Recreating paperwork is much harder than retaining items. 

9. Monitor the Project Regularly 

A general contractor will tackle most of the day-to-day details for you, but you should remain an active participant in your home’s repairs. Visit the worksite regularly and ask questions about anything you don’t understand. 

Questions to Ask a General Contractor 

Interviews are an important part of the selection process. Asking questions can help you ensure your professional is right for the work you need completed. 

These questions from FEMA can help you get started:[6]

1. Are you licensed as a general contractor?
2. How many local building permits have you obtained in the last two years?
3. Have you worked on projects similar to mine?
4. What kind of written warranty will you give me?
5. How will you supervise my project?
6. What will my payment schedule be?
7. Will you supervise the permits and required inspections?
8. What kind of timeline should I expect from this project?