Your home may be destroyed by a fire or storm. You're scrambling around to get your lives and routines back in order and you may think that things couldn't get worse. Well, they can and often do because of people who can't spell contractor without c-o-n.

The period after a serious loss is hectic, emotional and disorienting. Your major concern is to get your home repaired or rebuilt. These elements make you very vulnerable to "CONtractors," people who specialize in victimization instead of construction. While you may be in a hurry to restore your loss, it is critically important to avoid persons who appear on your damaged doorstep offering to start construction. While managing a loss, think of taking precautions such as the following in order to avoid compounding your problems:

• Pay attention to your "gut" being aware of any "feelings" you get about any contractor you speak to
• Refuse to pay any money "up front"; a reputable contractor always works according to a written agreement, spelling out cost of materials, labor and other important work details
• Contact more than one contractor to get competitive estimates
• Make sure that any contractor you talk to provides references and proof that they are insured
• Check references and ask for evidence of how long the contractor has been in business
• If a local chapter is available, call the Better Business Bureau and check for complaints
• Ignore any tactics intended to pressure you into making an immediate financial commitment.

Keep in touch with an insurance professional during such trying times. They're already committed to providing genuine help.