Charleston, WV (WOAY) – West Virginia Attorney JB McCuskey is asking residents dealing with storm damage to be on the lookout for scams when hiring help to make repairs.
In a press release McCuskey says: “The damage caused in some parts of the state is heartbreaking and now our communities are faced with the difficult challenge of cleaning up. We want to make sure that process isn’t any more difficult than it needs to be – so please, be aware of scammers who often target those facing hardships. Do your research before hiring people to make your repairs and know that our office is ready to stand up to those who prey on victims.”
Those looking to scam folks dealing with flood damage will often canvas neighborhoods and offer deals that are too good to be true. They will also make claims that they are working in concert with a bank or insurance company.
They will also ask you to pay in advance before the work is complete.
The Attorney General recommends that residents take their time, do their research and use caution before hiring anyone to do work.
Here are a few tips:
- Evaluate the size and scope of the project.
- Get written estimates from multiple companies.
- Research companies that repair storm damage.
- Ask for references to verify the contractor’s prior work.
- Look for reviews of the company on trusted websites.
- Check to see if the contractor has a valid license by contacting the West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board at 304-558-7890.
In addition, there are laws that contractors who agree to work with your insurance company must adhere to. If your insurance claim is for roof repairs, state law says that a contractor must allow the consumer five days to cancel roofing contracts, as opposed to the three-day period for door-to-door sales.
Anyone with questions or a potential storm-related home repair scam should call the Consumer Protection Division at 800-368-8808.
