Hiring Contractor and How to File Claim Tips from Allstate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America (Free-Press-Release.com) August 29, 2011 -- GREENVILLE, N.C., (Aug. 29, 2011) – Was your home damaged during Hurricane Irene? After filing your insurance claim, there are simple effective steps that a person can take to avoid being ripped off from an illegitimate contractor.

Allstate policyholders can begin the claim process by calling or visiting their Allstate Agent, calling 1-800-54-STORM, logging onto Allstate.com or at an Allstate Mobile Claims Center. For the most current locations of Allstate’s Mobile Claims Centers, please visit www.allstate.com/catastrophe/Mobile-Response-Units.aspx

When hiring a contractor, applying some quick research with the Better Business Bureau and trusting your instincts can help save some problems. Also, try these 11 points to avoid getting scammed.

• Take your time in choosing true professionals to repair your home.

• Get estimates from several licensed, bonded contractors.

• Check their credentials with your local Better Business Bureau or Home Builders Association.

• Ask your neighbors what they’re paying for similar work.

• Inspect contractors’ licenses and proof of liability insurance.

• Get a contract in writing.

• Avoid paying money up-front. Some reputable contractors will require partial, up-front payment, but these pre-work payments shouldn’t exceed the costs of materials or 20 percent of the total estimate.

• Follow local building codes and inspection procedures.

• If anyone performs work on your house or property without your permission, don’t pay them, and contact your local authorities.

• Avoid signing over an insurance settlement check to a contractor.

• Immediately report any suspicious behavior to your local police, sheriff’s department and Allstate agent.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its “You’re In Good Hands With Allstate®” slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

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