Like many other major storms that have hit Central Florida, Hurricane Helene left a devastating trail of destruction in its wake and was followed by Hurricane Milton. Residential and commercial property owners now face the daunting task of rebuilding and repairing their damaged structures.
Selecting the right contractor to restore your property is vital to ensure quality workmanship and timely completion. The one you choose should have a proven track record in disaster recovery and understand how complex storm damage repairs can be. They should also be able to help you deal with insurance claims efficiently.
If needed, a Cobb Cole construction law attorney can assist by providing legal guidance and representation throughout the construction process, from contract negotiation and dispute resolution to insurance claims and lien prevention.
Essential Post-Hurricane Rebuilding Tips for Residential and Commercial Property Owners
Rebuilding after a hurricane is no small task, but with the right approach, you can manage the process efficiently and have a successful outcome.
1. Assess Insurance Coverage
Thoroughly review your property’s insurance policy before researching and hiring a contractor. Take into consideration its coverage limits, deductibles, and any specific requirements for filing claims. This information helps determine the scope of repairs and the potential financial assistance you might expect from your insurer.
2. Research and Verify Contractors
Researching and verifying a contractor’s credentials ensures you hire a reputable and qualified professional.
- Online reviews. Check sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau for local contractor reviews and ratings. Look for a consistent pattern of positive feedback.
- Licenses and certifications. Make a short list of contractors with the necessary licenses, permits, and certifications required by your state or local jurisdictions. These credentials indicate a contractor meets specific standards of professionalism and expertise. Visit www.myfloridalicense.com for more information.
- Insurance. Verify that the contractor carries general liability and workers’ compensation insurance policies that protect you from potential legal and financial liabilities if an accident occurs on your property.
- References. Ask contractors for references from previous clients and then contact them to learn about the company’s work quality, communication, and professionalism.
3. Obtain Detailed Estimates
Ask contractors for detailed estimates that break down the project’s costs, including materials, labor, and permits. This helps you compare pricing and identify any potential overcharges. Once you choose a company to work with, insist on a written contract that clearly outlines the following:
- Scope of work.
- Timelines.
- Payment terms.
- Dispute resolution procedures.
- NEVER SIGN AN “ASSIGNMENT OF BENEFITS” without consulting an attorney.
4. Communication and Trust
Open and honest communication with your contractor is essential. Discuss your expectations, concerns, and any specific requirements for the project. Hire a contractor who is responsive, knowledgeable, and committed to your satisfaction.
5. Legal Considerations
Be aware of the potential for construction liens if the contractor, sub-contractors, suppliers or laborers are not paid in full. If you do not receive a release of lien from every lienor who has properly served notice with every payment to your contractor, you could end up paying twice! Once a lien is placed on your property, it can make it difficult to sell or refinance. Consult a construction law attorney to review contracts, navigate complex insurance claims, and address legal disputes.
Other tips to consider include obtaining multiple bids from reputable contractors to compare pricing and services and avoiding large upfront deposits. Also, be cautious of contractors who offer significantly lower bids than others. Low prices may indicate a lack of experience, poor quality materials, or hidden costs.
How Cobb Cole’s Construction Law Team Can Help
Cobb Cole’s construction law team is dedicated to helping Central Florida commercial and residential property owners rebuild after major storms like Hurricane Helene. Our skilled attorneys can assist with a wide range of legal issues, including insurance claims, contract negotiations, and construction lien disputes.
We collaborate with you to ensure your rights are protected and guide you through the complex process of rebuilding your home or business:
- Contract review. We review contracts to ensure they protect your interests and comply with local regulations.
- Dispute Resolution. If a dispute arises with your contractor, one of our construction law attorneys can help you negotiate a settlement or represent you in litigation.
- Insurance claims. We assist you in filing insurance claims and negotiating with insurance companies.
- Lien prevention. A construction law attorney provides guidance on preventing construction liens and protecting your property rights.
With our expertise and commitment to client satisfaction, you can trust Cobb Cole to be your partner in recovery!
Contact us online or call 386-255-8171 to discuss how we can support your post-hurricane rebuilding.
