For Restoration Companies

Restoration contractors often work on the same losses we see in homeowner insurance claims. The documents around the job — who authorized the work, how payment is supposed to work, and what the homeowner is asked to sign when the work is done — can matter as much as the work itself. We draft and review those documents so the terms are clear before a dispute arises.

Before we agree to represent anyone, we run a conflict check and will not represent both sides of the same claim. If we already represent the homeowner, or have a conflict for any other reason, we will tell you and decline the matter.

Work Authorizations

A work authorization should clearly describe what the contractor is being asked to do, who is authorizing it, how changes to the scope will be handled and how payment is expected to work. Vague or one-sided authorizations can leave both the contractor and the homeowner unsure of their obligations. We draft and review these documents so the terms are set out in writing before work begins.

Certificates of Satisfaction (COS)

A certificate of satisfaction, sometimes called a COS or a completion certificate, is a document in which the homeowner acknowledges that work has been completed, often as a step toward payment. Signing one too early, or with language that goes beyond a simple acknowledgment of the work, can affect later payment or claim questions. We review COS forms and help contractors use language that accurately reflects the status of the work, without overstating it.

Subcontractor Agreements

When a restoration contractor brings in other trades, a written subcontractor agreement should address scope, insurance, payment timing and what happens if the job changes. We draft and review these agreements so the roles and responsibilities among contractors are documented.

Homeowner Payment Disputes

Payment disagreements can arise when a homeowner questions an invoice, a carrier has not issued a payment, or the parties disagree about whether the work is complete. We can review the contract, the invoices and the communications and advise the contractor on options. How a payment issue is resolved depends on the documents and the facts of the matter, and no outcome can be guaranteed.

Direction-to-Pay Style Documents

Some jobs use a direction-to-pay or similar form in which the homeowner asks the insurer to send a payment to the contractor. These documents need to be written carefully so they accurately describe the request and do not overstate anyone's rights. We draft and review direction-to-pay style documents and related payment instructions. Preparing this paperwork is not public adjusting and does not mean we are collecting or negotiating an insurance claim for the contractor.

Related Contracts

Restoration work can also involve change orders, limited letters of intent, equipment or contents authorizations and other short-form agreements. We can draft or review these related contracts so they are consistent with the main work authorization and with New York law.