While the vast majority of companies performing storm repairs are reputable, the challenge is that untrustworthy companies are hard to spot. Homeowners should shop around and thoroughly research contractors before signing any contracts or having any work done.

To begin your search for a contractor, the HBA maintains a membership directory listing its 1,000 member companies by the types of services they provide. In the wake of the storms, the HBA has compiled an additional list of contractors who have indicated they have crews available for immediate storm-related damage. While these lists are not an endorsement of any company, they are ways to begin the search for a contractor.

Your insurance company may also be able to provide a list of approved contractors for repair work. Homeowners should be wary before contracting with suspicious businesses, such as companies traveling door-to-door offering services or with out-of-town identification.

The HBA also offers these general tips for homeowners searching for a repair or remodeling company:

• Ask for a list of references and call other homeowners for verification.
• Ask for a company's business license information and call the city or county in which they are licensed to confirm that it is current.
• Contact the Better Business Bureau and the state Attorney General office for a list of possible complaints against a company.
• Do not enter into verbal work agreements or sign blank contracts; ask for a contract listing the specific work to be done and the estimated price.
• Read the fine print, especially regarding information on price estimate overruns.