WILDFIRES - Rebuilding after the fires

[Karen Margrave]

Having a grandson that works for Cal Fire, I am always very sensitive to where the fires are burning and the damage being done. First off, I'd like to say a big THANK YOU! to ALL of the firefighters and 1st responders working the fires. It is an extremely demanding job, with many firefighters having already finished their season and voluntarily signing back on to go back - and many more wanting to go but were limited by the 9 month max policy - they LOVE their jobs. I know my grandson had his back broken last year when an aircrane helicopter dumped a HUGE load of water directly on him, and he was back at work as soon as he could get there! 

If you or someone you know lost a house, as the fires are put out, and it's time to rebuild, I know there are many unscrupulous people that try to swoop in and take advantage of those that are still in shock over the loss of their homes and belongings, the elderly, etc. Here are a few tips to help you.

• When hiring a contractor,  VERIFY THEIR LICENSE and Bond
• Ask for references, with addresses and phone numbers of previous clients - then check them
• Make sure to get bids from more than one contractor with SPECIFIC information on what they are bidding on, brand names of things like appliances, HVAC, etc., will cabinets be solid wood custom or stock from a big box, etc. (You want to be able to compare apples to apples - there's a huge variation in quality of materials) 
• Any contract you enter into should be IN WRITING. If you aren't familiar with contracts or construction, ask someone else to check it out that is. 
• MONEY - Do NOT pay for work that has not been done! If a contractor needs a deposit that is reasonable, that is ok, but be leary of anyone asking for most of the money before any work is done.
• Have a WRITTEN and CLEARLY STATED contract that specifies how money will be released, and when. Also, a clause stating that a list of all subcontractors and suppliers will be provided to you. (A subcontractor or supplier if not paid by the General Contractor could lien your property if they are not paid, and you want to make sure that doesn't happen)
• When releasing money for work, if there is a subcontractor or materials supplier that has provided work or materials, be sure to have a SIGNED LIEN RELEASE from them before paying the General Contractor (it can all be done concurrently) 
• If the house is a total knock down and rebuild new, make sure the contractor has experience dealing with the process from plans through final build out. Not all General Contractors are experienced in new construction, nor remodeling. You want the right contractor for your specific job. 

I'm sure others will chime in with their advice. Please stay safe!