We recently experienced flash flooding and destruction in our area that caused extensive property damage and loss of life. Recovery from the physical devastation will take a long time.
Other losses will stay with the area’s residents for a lifetime.
It’s unimaginable that people would prey on those who have lost their homes, their cars, their loved ones. But they will and they do. These folks who have literally had their lives changed in a matter of minutes now have to be vigilant against those who would increase their pain and suffering by scamming them.
Charity scams are hitting the area with the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office stating that they have received reports of fake GoFundMe pages as well as non-local organizations collecting money online. Make sure to donate to a reputable charity. There are several local organizations that are accepting donations. There are resources that are offering assistance, and there are resources that continue to accept donations. Be vigilant when donating! Direct your donations to organizations you trust.
Home repair scams are also a problem after a disaster. People will probably show up on your property or they may call you. They pressure you to act quickly. They may ask for money up front then disappear once you pay them. Scammers may tell you they don’t need a license to perform repairs or they may ask you to turn over an insurance check. They may offer to do home repairs or clean up debris. Scammers know that people who have endured disasters have immediate needs and they will take advantage of that. They don’t care that you are in pain.
Here are some tips that can help you avoid getting scammed.
- FEMA doesn’t charge application fees.
- Know what your insurance covers. Don’t depend on the “contractor” to tell you what’s covered. Arrange with your financial institution for a Certificate of Completion which arranges for the bank to pay the contractor for each stage of the job.
- Beware of promises of immediate clean-up or immediate repairs. Don’t let them pressure you.
- Check out contractors before you commit to anything. Check out a contractor’s reviews. Do an online search for their name with keywords like “scam” or “complaint”.
- Consider only contractors who are licensed and insured and confirm the information.
- Get estimates from more than one contractor.
- Get a written contract. Read it carefully. Before you sign a contract, make sure it includes the contractor’s name, address, phone, and license number (if required), and includes information on start / completion dates, scope of work, and all costs, a written statement of your right to cancel the contract within three business days, and make sure there are no blank spaces that someone could fill in later
Scammers WILL take advantage of someone who is enduring the most difficult challenges of their lives. Don’t let that person be you!
Stay safe!
