Recent severe weather across the region did some extensive damage. Tornadoes, strong winds and hail were reported across the area during the 4-days of severe storms.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has deployed some resources to help home and business owners with the recovery process. Tips on finding trustworthy contractors, outlining critical first steps and preparing damage reports for your insurance claim are among the resources offered.
Josh Planos, VP of Marketing, Communications & PR with the BBB of the Midwest Plains told KLIN News, ” bbb.org/storm you’ll find all of our, you know, the thunderstorm and tornado resources. We’ve got information for before the next storm, for how to navigate insurance, how to buy insurance. We’ve got a checklist of what to do during a storm, what to do after the storm.”
BBB also listed post-disaster scams to watch out for, including;
• Unlicensed contractors and day laborers. Storm disasters attract unlicensed workers who pose as established contractors. Verify every contractor’s license independently through your state licensing board by phone or online. Word-of-mouth and business cards aren’t verification.
• Door-to-door solicitors and inspectors. If you didn’t call them, be suspicious. Scammers use the chaos of disaster to gain access to properties. Never grant access to anyone who approaches you; always initiate contact with licensed professionals yourself.
• Fake FEMA and government assistance. Federal disaster aid will never charge upfront fees. If anyone claims to represent FEMA or offers expedited assistance for a fee, it’s a scam. Verify any government program by calling directly using numbers from official websites.
• Fake insurance adjusters and invoice scams. Before granting anyone access to your property, call your insurance company directly to confirm they’ve assigned an adjuster. Verify the adjuster’s identity and credentials before proceeding.