Protect yourself: Ask your insurer about coverage and to get a correct estimate. Never pay the full price of a job before it’s done; pay in increments as work is completed. A down payment of less than a third of the estimated total cost is OK. It allows the contractor to buy materials, which you should see arrive at your home along with invoices indicating what was bought and paid. Pay with a personal check or credit card, which you can keep better track of than cash. Don’t do business with contractors who knock on your door; find listed, licensed, and insured local construction companies. Get at least three written estimates.