A nonprofit consumer group is cautioning people who suffered flood damage in recent heavy rains about dishonest contractors.
Better Business Bureau President Steve Bernas says home and business owners should carefully consider repair contracts and not rush into making decisions.
The group suggests requesting bids from several companies and getting estimates in writing. Don't automatically choose the lowest bidder and don't make a full payment until all the work is finished to your satisfaction. Pay no more than one-third of the cost upfront.
Require a written contract. The agreement should specify the work to be done and the materials to be used. It should include the price breakdown for labor and materials. Any promises made should be written into the contract, including warranties on materials or labor.
Flooding caused major traffic issues along Interstate 90/94 Saturday afternoon.
Residents reported flooding across Northwest Indiana and NWS reported Route 53 near Lewis University was impassable due to flooding.
Flash flooding was also reported in parts of Des Plaines.
Rain overnight Thursday into Friday created heavy flooding in Burbank, with much of a residential neighborhood east of Narragansett Avenue, roughly between West 81st and West 85th streets, under water.
Officials said 200 homes were damaged in neighboring Oak Lawn.
