Hiring a Contractor After a Disaster

• Start with insurance: Ask what your policy covers, how payments work, and what steps to take next. See our guide on navigating insurance after a disaster for more help.

• Contact your mortgage lender: If you have a home loan, your lender may handle insurance funds and release them as repairs are verified. Call them early to learn what to expect.

• Apply for disaster aid: If insurance doesn’t cover everything, look into disaster aid programs. Learn more about disaster assistance here. 

• Watch out for scams: Avoid door-to-door salespeople offering cleanup or repairs. Don’t sign contracts or pay large deposits under pressure. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. See the Oregon Department of Justice’s tips on avoiding scams after a disaster. 

You may need more than one type of contractor to help with cleanup and repairs: 

• Disaster cleanup: Look for a remediation or mitigation contractor. They handle water damage, mold, soot, ash, or debris, and often test for hazardous materials. 

• Hazardous materials: If you have asbestos, lead, or other dangerous materials, you'll need to hire a licensed abatement contractor. 

• Repairs and rebuilding: After cleanup, a general contractor can rebuild or repair your home’s structure, roof, siding, windows, and more. They may hire subcontractors to help with plumbing, wiring, or drywall. 

For more information on asbestos and lead paint, see the Oregon Health Authority Lead Poisoning Prevention Resources and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality Asbestos Information.

Step 1: Get recommendations 

Many contractors rely on word of mouth and don’t advertise online. Here are some tips for finding a good contractor: 

• Ask friends and neighbors.

• Talk to staff at your local hardware or construction supply store.

• Ask your insurance agent for recommendations.

• Avoid contractors who go door-to-door after a disaster.

Step 2: Check licenses 

Oregon requires all construction contractors to get a license through the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB). Use the CCB license search tool to confirm a contractor's license and see if anyone has filed a complaint against them. 

Hiring a licensed contractor means: 

• They have training, experience, and must follow state safety rules.

• They carry insurance that may cover damage or unfinished work.

• The CCB can get involved if there are problems with the contractor.

Step 3: Get written bids 

Get written bids from two or three contractors before hiring someone. Here are some tips for reviewing bids: 

• Compare what each bid includes (or doesn't include).  

• A very low bid can be a warning sign.

• Compare bids with your insurance estimate. 

• Re-negotiate with your insurance company if the bids come in higher than the insurance estimate. 

Step 4: Choose carefully 

• Price isn’t everything: Look for clear communication, good references, and a solid track record.  

• Trust your instincts: Pick someone honest, reliable, and responsive.  

• Be patient: A reputable contractor may not be available right away. 

Step 5: Sign a written contract 

Get these details in writing: 

• A description of the work to be done.

• The contractor’s name and CCB license number.

• The address where work will happen.

• The expected start and finish dates.

• A payment schedule

• Who will get the required permits (usually the contractor, but confirm this in writing).

For more help, see Selecting and Working with Contractor, a guide from the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. 

• Keep records: Save contracts, change orders, receipts, invoices, and emails. These records can help with insurance or later damage claims. 

• Confirm changes in writing: Use written “change orders” to approve extra costs. 

• Stay involved: Visit the site regularly or request photo updates. Ask questions early and throughout the process. 

• Hold final payment: Don’t pay in full until you’ve done a walk-through and your final inspection is complete. 

1. Talk to the contractor first. Write down your concerns, explain what needs to be fixed, and give a clear deadline. Keep photos and documents. 

2. File a complaint: If your contractor is licensed and won’t resolve the issue, you can file a complaint with the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB). Learn more about the complaint process on the CCB website.

3. Go to court if needed: If the CCB complaint process fails, you can sue. Use small claims court for disputes under $10,000. Larger claims go to civil court. 

If you get stuck, a lawyer can explain your options and help you decide what to do next. For help finding a lawyer, refer to our guide on finding and hiring a lawyer.