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As communities across the U.S. begin the challenging process of rebuilding after Hurricane Milton—the most powerful storm to hit the nation in years—National Building Expert Lance Luke has issued an urgent advisory for homeowners. With post-hurricane scams and construction pitfalls on the rise, Luke offers crucial steps to ensure safe and effective rebuilding.
The destructive force of Hurricane Milton has left thousands of homes damaged or destroyed. In the rush to repair and rebuild, many homeowners risk falling prey to unlicensed contractors or substandard repair work. Luke, a renowned expert in construction management, warns that improper rebuilding practices can lead to long-term structural issues and costly repairs down the line.
“After any natural disaster, the demand for contractors skyrockets, and unfortunately, so does the number of unqualified and unlicensed operators looking to make a quick profit,” Luke stated. “Homeowners must take extra precautions to safeguard their investments and ensure the safety of their homes.”
Key Guidelines for Safe Rebuilding After Hurricane Milton:
1. Verify Contractor Credentials: Ensure contractors hold all required licenses and certifications for the work.
2. Secure Detailed Contracts: Every project should be outlined in a contract that includes the scope, timeline, and costs.
3. Avoid Large Upfront Payments: Pay in stages based on project milestones to avoid potential scams.
4. Request a Construction Schedule: Keeping a timeline ensures accountability and project tracking.
5. Insurance Approvals: Confirm insurance companies approve all rebuilding costs before work begins.
6. Regular Inspections: Monitor progress to ensure work meets quality and safety standards.
7. Notify Mortgage Lenders: Keep mortgage lenders informed about rebuilding plans for financial protection.
8. Document Everything: Maintain records of contracts, payments, and communications.
As Luke emphasizes, taking these precautions is crucial to avoid further complications during the recovery phase. “It’s essential to stay vigilant and informed,” he says, “so that the rebuilding process doesn’t create new problems down the road.”
In addition to these practical steps, Luke also supports enhancing building codes to better withstand future disasters. Recent extreme weather events, including Hurricanes Milton and Helene, underscore the need for more resilient construction standards across the U.S.
Resources for Resilient Rebuilding Standards:
For homeowners seeking guidance on resilient construction, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the International Code Council (ICC) offer essential resources:
ASCE/SEI 7-22 Standards: Standards designed to protect buildings against extreme weather events. Learn more. https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/9780784415788
ICC Hazard-Resistant Building Codes: Codes that provide guidance on building structures capable of withstanding natural disasters. Find out more. https://www.iccsafe.org/codessave/
Luke’s advisory aims to bring awareness to the importance of informed rebuilding practices after natural disasters and encourages homeowners to protect their investments. With years of experience in disaster recovery, Luke’s insights help homeowners make safer, smarter decisions as they work to rebuild their lives and communities.
Contact Info:
Name: Lance Luke
Email: Send Email
Organization: Construction Management Inspection LLC
Address: 820 West Hind Drive Suite 240275, Honolulu, HI 96824, United States
Phone: +1-808-754-3425
Website: http://building.expert
Release ID: 89144613