Request an estimate for repairs from at least three reputable "damage restoration" companies. General contractors often do not have the experience of working within the insurance companies' procedures to best protect your interests.
Examine the companies' references and discuss with other homeowners their experiences with the contractors. Make sure the companies are bonded and have their own workman's comp insurance on their laborers.
Walk the contractors through the damaged areas, explaining what needs to be done and your expectations. Often restoration experts will find damage that an adjuster missed, which will have to be added to the insurance estimate as a supplemental claim.
Decide which of the companies you want to do the work. If its quote is higher, negotiate with the company to do the work for the insurance estimate.
Have a contract written out that clearly states the time frame in which the work must be done and the payments to be made.
After the work is complete have the contractor sends a notification to the insurance company. This enables the insurance to complete the payment of the last portion to you.