Photo by Jeremy Elkins

As below-freezing temperatures continue to blanket the area, homeowners could be facing potential problems from falling tree limbs and frozen pipes. To minimize damage, it’s important to find someone who can intervene quickly to make emergency repairs – a plumber, restoration company, home improvement contractor or tree service you can trust.

“It’s good to start by getting recommendations from friends and family about contractors they have used,” said Randy Hutchinson, BBB of the Mid-South president. “But don’t stop there. Check out any company you’re thinking of hiring with BBB at bbb.org or by calling our office at 901-759-1300.”

If you don’t have a particular company in mind, the Mid-South BBB can provide  lists of BBB Accredited Businesses in these and other industries who have pledged to do the job right and treat you fairly. “You can access these lists online 24 hours a day on our website at bbb.org/memphis/accredited-business-directory ,” Hutchinson added.

BBB Advice for Dealing with Frozen Pipes:

If your pipes freeze and burst:

• Cut-off the water valve. If you are unable to locate or operate your cut-off valve, call your water provider immediately for help.
• Call your insurance agent to file a claim. Be sure to ask for specific procedures or paperwork needed to move forward with repairs.
• If possible, take photos of any water saturation. An insurance adjuster may need to see what’s been damaged in order to process your claim. Keep any receipts from emergency repairs for reimbursement.
• As soon as the majority of water has been drained away, all wet items should be discarded or cleaned and thoroughly dried within 48 hours of flooding to prevent the growth of mold, according to the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
• Water restoration companies can help remove water and set up equipment for drying areas that were saturated.

BBB Advice for Hiring Companies to Repair Damage Caused by an Ice Storm or Burst Pipes: 

• Be wary of companies who show up unsolicited at your door offering to make repairs. Most reputable businesses are too busy right now to solicit work in this manner.
• Beware of price gouging. Some unethical businesses may increase prices due to the high demand for these types of services during the cold weather.
• Take time to shop around, get competitive bids, and check references and licensing requirements. You can check a company’s rating with BBB on our website 24 hours a day.
• Access lists of BBB Accredited Businesses in these industries here:
  • BBB Accredited Plumbers
  • BBB Accredited Water Restoration Companies
  • BBB Accredited Home Improvement Contractors
  • BBB Accredited Tree Service Companies
• Request a written contract, detailing all services, materials and labor. Be sure the contractor signs your copy before you make any payments.
• Never pay for all repairs in advance and do not pay with cash.
• Permits may be required for certain kinds of repairs. Consumers should check with their local Code Enforcement office to determine if a permit is needed for their repairs.
• Confirm insurance credentials. Ask to see proof that the contractor has both liability and workmen’s compensation insurance. If the contractor does not, you could be liable for any accidents on your property, including injury to the technician.