Tropical Storm Claudette Damages Homes Across the South, Midwest, East

NICB Investigators Will Be On-hand Investigating Fraud Complaints as Homeowners Begin Rebuilding Process 

DES PLAINES, Ill., June 22, 2021 — As Tropical Storm Claudette passes through the eastern U.S., homeowners will be left trying to find contractors to repair their homes – and could be victimized by dishonest contractors looking to make a quick, corrupt buck. 

Following a disaster, victims are understandably confused and shaken by the damage or possible loss of their homes and belongings. Sadly, it is at this time crooked contractors arrive and press homeowners into paying out their insurance claim prior to the repairs being completed. Time and again, investigators with the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) have seen these bad actors collect payment, and then disappear without completing the work that was promised.

Typically, these disaster repair scams are unsolicited, beginning with a visit from a contractor seeking to help victims rebuild. Before hiring any contractor, call your insurance company. There is no need to rush into an agreement with a contractor who solicits your repair work, especially if it was not requested.  

NICB suggests you consider these tips before hiring a contractor:  

• Get more than one estimate.  
• Get everything in writing. Cost, work to be done, time schedules, guarantees, payment schedules, and other expectations should be detailed.  
• Request references and do the research.  
• Ask to see the salesperson’s driver’s license and write down the license number and their vehicle’s license plate number.  
• Look out for out-of-state contractor licenses, as well as out-of-state vehicle registrations, as these may also indicate possible fraudulent contractors.   
• Never sign a contract with blanks; unacceptable terms can be added later.  
• Never pay a contractor in full or sign a completion certificate until the work is finished. 
• Ensure reconstruction is up to current code.  
• Make sure you review and understand all documents sent to your insurance carrier.  
• Never let a contractor pressure you into hiring them.  
• Never let a contractor interpret the language of your insurance policy.  
• Never let a contractor discourage you from contacting your insurance company.  

Furthermore, some deceitful contractors will state they are supported by the government. However, the Federal Emergency Management Agency does not endorse individual contractors or loan agencies. Consumers should call FEMA for more specifics at (800) 621-FEMA.