In the wake of Hurricane Zeta, the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board (HBLB) cautions consumers of the potential for scams, fraud, and incompetent work during post-storm damage cleanup, repair, and rebuilding, and encourages consumers to use licensed home builders as required by law. Builders holding an unlimited license issued by the HBLB have passed a test and provided evidence of financial responsibility in order to obtain their license.

A license issued by the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board is required when the cost of repairing or rebuilding the home is more than $10,000. Consumers are also encouraged to seek out licensees of the Board even if the scope of the work is less than $10,000.

A license issued by the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board is required when the cost of repairing or rebuilding the home is more than $10,000. Consumers are also encouraged to seek out licensees of the Board even if the scope of the work is less than $10,000.

A roofer is required to have a roofers license issued by the Home Builders Licensure Board if the work exceeds $2,500. If there is any work that exceeds the cost of $10,000 it is required that they are licensed by the Home Builders Licensure Board.

The HBLB offers these important tips for homeowners to avoid further damage after the storm is over:

  • Ask to see the card. All licensed home builders have a wallet card, proving that they are currently licensed. The wallet card is credit card sized, not to be confused with large state and local business licenses.
  • Ask for, and check, references. Once you have taken care of your first priority, protecting your home from further damage, you will have time to obtain and check references before work begins.
  • Make sure quotes and contracts are in writing. It is required by law!
  • Ask for proof of insurance. Make sure you have proof of workers compensation and general liability insurance, not just a verbal assurance.
  • Don’t get in a hurry! If your home is severely damaged, take your time to make careful, informed decisions. Taking a little time now will save you lots of time in the future.
  • Contact your local county or municipal officials regarding local residential construction ordinances, and make sure your builder knows them.

The HBLB will be working with the state EMA, local law enforcement, and local building officials post-Tropical Storm Sally to respond to specific needs.

Contact the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board at 334-242-2230 or visit our website: www.hblb.alabama.gov to find out if a builder is licensed or for more information.