Posted On: June 17, 2005, 2:02 pm CDT

Posted By: Grant Gerrond

Contractor's are not allowed to act as Public Adjusters in IL, unless they have a PA's license.

None the less, it's unfortunate that the insured has been "left a the alter" on something like this, but in general it's never a good idea to pay the full amount of a repair job up front. Normally it 1/3 to start, 1/3 as a progress payment once materials are delivered and work is actually started and the final 1/3 once the job is done to the owner's satifaction. The insured's need to be aware of this and be cautious of any contractors that won't start without a full up-front payment (read find another contractor).

Finally homeowners need to check out who they are hiring. Having someone knock on your door and soliciting "hail damage" is not a good reference. Warn them that just because there doing other jobs in a town or neighborhood is also not a good refernce. The insured's need to look for someone with a stable local presence, and if possible certificates of insurance and references. On larger jobs they should ask for a bond.