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For most flood proofing measures, especially those involving elevating or relocating a building, it is rec- ommended that an experienced contractor be hired. Before making a commitment to any work, the prop- erty owner should obtain a rough estimate of the cost of the flood proofing measure to assist in deciding whether further consideration is worthwhile. In choosing a contractor, the property owner should look for those with experience in design and con- struction of flood proofing systems. The property owner should examine photos or make site visits to buildings previously flood proofed by the contractor to evaluate the quality of work. The property owner should obtain cost estimates from at least three contractors and question each about any price differences. The final decision on selecting a contractor should be based not only on cost but also on the ability of the contractor to complete the project in a satisfactory and timely manner. Before work on flood proofing the building begins. a contract between the property owner and the con- tractor should be signed to be sure that there is mutual agreement on the work to be performed and how it will be funded. The property owner should never sign a vague contract and should always obtain a copy of the final signed contract. The property owner may wish to consult with a lawyer before signing the contract, especially for more complex and costly projects. After the work is completed and before final payment is made, the property owner should be satisfied with the work, make sure that all appropriate regulatory requirements and inspections have been satisfied, and obtain written assurance that all subcon- tractors and suppliers of material have been paid. If the flood proofing project is expected to require design by a professional engineer. the property owner should hire an architectural/engineering (AlE) firm for technical assistance. As with selecting a contrac- tor, the property owner should choose an AlE firm not only based on price but also on the ability to per- form the work in a timely manner. The AlE firm should be able to provide a list of similar, completed projects including photos and/or the names and addresses of the clients. The property owner should visit completed projects and/or call the clients to ask questions and evaluate the quality of work. The firm should also be located in and have knowledge of the project area. including necessary permit require- ments and availability of qualified contractors. The names of qualified contractors and AlE firms who work in flood proofing may be obtained through the local Better Business Bureau, building associations, and the Independent Contractors Association. ~ SECONDARY BE"EFITS SOLD Primary flood proofing benefits are those discussed under the Flood Damage Reduction section in Chapter One. Secondary benefits that property owners realize from flood proofing may not be readily apparent to them, particularly if they have not previously ex- perienced flooding. For homeowners, these secondary benefits might include avoiding the expense and inconvenience of staying elsewhere after suffering flood damages that could have been avoided by flood proofing, reducing the hours they must spend away from their jobs while cleaning and repairing the flood-damaged building, and preserving the structure itself which would increase the life of the building. The resale value of a structure subject to flooding may be enhanced by reducing the new property owner's anxiety from fear of repeated flooding. A flooded business could result in loss of wages, re- duced profits, or delays in receiving goods and services. 8 INCO'WEKIENCE There is also great personal inconvenience experienced by property owners who are flooded. In many cases, they cannot occupy the building until they clean and reparr the flood damage. Restoration can include repairing sagging floors and roof sections, drying 4