The Stone and Sling Framework: Protecting Yourself When Hiring a Contractor
When storms pass, another danger often arrives; predatory contractors, or “storm chasers.” To protect yourself, think of your defenses in terms of stones and the sling.
Stones (Protective Methods)
These are the tools you gather before taking action. Each stone represents a method of shielding yourself from fraud:
License Verification – Confirm the contractor holds a valid, up-to-date license in your state.
Insurance Proof – Request certificates of liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
References & Reputation – Speak with past clients, check reviews, and verify business standing with the Better Business Bureau.
Written Contracts – Insist on detailed, signed agreements outlining scope, costs, timelines, and warranties.
Payment Practices – Never pay the full amount up front. Use staged payments tied to work milestones.
Local Presence – Favor established local contractors with physical offices over out-of-town “storm chasers.”
Permit Compliance – Ensure the contractor is responsible for pulling all required permits.
Sling (Applying the Methods)
Stones alone won’t protect you—you must sling them with precision:
Ask and Verify – Don’t just take documents at face value; call state licensing boards, insurers, and references directly.
Compare Multiple Bids – Obtain at least three detailed estimates before deciding.
Trust but Confirm – Even if someone comes recommended, verify independently.
Slow Down – Scammers thrive on urgency. Take time to review contracts and check credentials before signing.
Stay in Control – You choose the contractor, not your insurance company, not a door-to-door salesperson.
By gathering your stones (methods of protection) and learning to sling them (applying them effectively), you turn the balance of power back in your favor. Just as David brought down Goliath, homeowners can defeat fraudsters and rebuild with confidence.