Special Section: Stand out in the crowd

When a catastrophic storm washes through, it?s followed by a flood of contractors?some reputable and some shady?looking for work repairing and rebuilding damaged properties. Most property owners are overwhelmed, even without the stress of finding the right contractor. Insurance adjusters may already have preferred contractors to recommend, but they too may confront an array of contractors they have not encountered before. Here?s how to assure owners and adjusters that your local company is a good choice.

• Offer to perform only the work that your company has the training, equipment, certifications, and insurance coverage to do; for most general contractors, this is demolition and rebuilding, not mitigation.
• Present documentation that you are licensed and insured to perform the work.
• Supply proof your company complies with all relevant federal, state, and local requirements.
• Display a clean record with the Better Business Bureau.
• Wear a clean shirt bearing your company logo.
• Drive a clean, late-model vehicle bearing company name, business information, local phone number and website address.
• Present a business card with your local, brick-and-mortar address.
• Use company letterhead?including address and phone number?for all communications.
• Explain the important benefits of working with an area contractor such as yours that will be available and committed to ensure customer satisfaction even after the crisis has passed.
• Provide a company profile, including years in business, services offered, certifications, achievements, and awards.
• Show photographs of your work.
• Furnish a list of references, with contact information.
• Demonstrate you have the knowledge and expertise to work with insurance companies, including the ability to prepare the detailed estimates required.
• Describe the working relationship you have with insurance adjusters or carriers, if you have established one. PR