7 Steps to Vet a Contractor Before Hiring in Idaho Falls

Local News 8 investigation uncovers how to avoid getting scammed by unscrupulous contractors

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:22pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating grid of construction tools like a toolbox, hammer, and screwdriver, conceptually representing the need to carefully vet contractors before hiring them.A pop art-inspired illustration of common construction tools serves as a visual metaphor for the importance of thoroughly vetting contractors before hiring them.Idaho Falls Today

After 10 homeowners and a local nonprofit lost tens of thousands of dollars due to an unfinished construction project, Local News 8 investigates the steps Idaho residents should take to thoroughly vet contractors before hiring them. The report outlines 7 key steps, including checking licenses, references, insurance coverage, and payment schedules, to prevent falling victim to contractor fraud and ensure projects are completed as promised.

Why it matters

This story highlights the importance of doing thorough research on contractors before signing any agreements, as unfinished or shoddy work can leave homeowners and organizations out significant sums of money with little recourse. The investigation sheds light on how some contractors in the Idaho Falls area may be "avoiding civil liability" when their businesses fail, leaving customers with few options to recoup losses.

The details

Local News 8 began this investigation after receiving complaints from 10 homeowners who claimed they were owed money for construction work left unfinished by Re-Lived Construction and its owner, Brandon Cook. When confronted, Cook apologized and said his business had spiraled out of control. However, the Idaho Attorney General's office was unable to take action, and the Bonneville County prosecutor explained that when contractors shut down their businesses, victims often hit a legal roadblock in civil courts.

  • Local News 8 received complaints from 10 homeowners in early 2026.
  • The investigation and reporting took place in April 2026.

The players

Brandon Cook

The owner of Re-Lived Construction, whose business failures left several homeowners and a local nonprofit out tens of thousands of dollars.

Jennifer Bennett

An Idaho Falls homeowner who originally reached out to Local News 8, hoping her story would prevent others from falling victim to contractor fraud.

Bob McLaughlin

An official with the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses, who provided guidance on the 7 steps homeowners should take to vet contractors before hiring them.

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What they’re saying

“I really feel like it's not even about the money anymore. I don't ever expect to see that back. I've come to terms with that. What I really want to see is I don't want him (Brandon Cook/Re-Lived Construction) to victimize anybody else.”

— Jennifer Bennett, Idaho Falls Homeowner

“Don't just check the references they give. Verify the information you find from multiple sources such as the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses and the Better Business Bureau. Ask them if you can talk to the customers. Say I'm from some maybe three or four of their last jobs as the contractor trade groups ask local building supply companies, real estate agents who deal with contractors. The Better Business Bureau. Search court records.”

— Bob McLaughlin, Official, Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses

What’s next

The Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses encourages homeowners to be proactive in vetting contractors, as some may be "avoiding civil liability" when their businesses fail, leaving customers with few options to recoup losses.

The takeaway

This investigation highlights the importance of thoroughly researching contractors before hiring them, as unfinished or shoddy work can leave homeowners and organizations financially devastated with little legal recourse. Following the 7 steps outlined - from checking licenses and references to negotiating payment schedules - can help Idaho Falls residents avoid falling victim to contractor fraud.