Know Louisiana License Law
Louisiana makes firms get licensed or listed with the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC). The key line for home owners: any home fix job over $7,500 in labor plus goods needs at least a home fix listing. Bigger jobs need a full license (source: LSLBC). Check any firm yourself at lslbc.gov before you hire. An unlisted firm on a $7,500+ job breaks state law.
Red Flags: Walk Away
- Door-to-door rush: "Sign today or the price jumps." Good firms do not need your mark tonight.
- Wants full pay up front or cash only. Never pay all before work is done.
- No license, no proof of cover, or will not put a license number in writing.
- Out-of-state plates, no local shop right after a storm. Classic storm-chaser sign.
- "We will deal with your insurer" plus a form that signs away your claim rights. Know what you sign.
- No written deal — just a handshake and a card.
Green Flags: Good Signs
- LSLBC license or listing you can check, plus liability and workers comp cover.
- A written deal with scope, goods, dates, full price, and pay tied to done work.
- Local refs you can call, and a real shop address.
- A small down sum, with the rest due as work gets done.
Guard Yourself on Paper
- Get two or three written quotes for big work.
- Never sign a blank or half-done deal.
- Keep copies of all: deal, pays, change orders, notes.
- Pay by check or card — never cash — so there is proof.
- If a firm does bad work or takes your cash, gripe to the LSLBC and the state Attorney General consumer unit.
A Note on FEMA Inspectors
True FEMA inspectors carry official photo ID. They never charge for a visit. They never ask for bank facts on the spot. Anyone who wants pay for "FEMA help" is a crook — report them.