Beware con artists after Hurricane Irene
There is a special place in Hell for people who take advantage of poor people who are victims of disaster. Here are some tips to prevent being scammed.-Lou
Bamboozled: beware con artists after Hurricane Irene
NJ.com
It’s really an old story: scammers taking advantage of those in need, hoping to line their pockets.
In the aftermath and cleanup from Hurricane Irene – with many homeowners barely back in their homes as the floodwaters have finally receded – you can expect to see more of the same. Sure, wallops like Irene bring out the best in some people, but they also bring out the opportunists, the hucksters, the con artists.
Complaints are likely to come in as homeowners start interviewing contractors to do repairs.
“For those people or businesses out there considering taking advantage of consumers in these times, they should know that profiteering at the expense of people who are suffering will not be tolerated,” said Thomas Calcagni, head of the Division of Consumer Affairs.
Calcagni said he had investigation teams visiting each of New Jersey’s 21 counties late last week looking into complaints and informing consumers about possible trickery.
Here’s a checklist for you to use as you search for contractors to help you rebuild.
BEFORE THE REPAIRS START
You’re home was flooded? The structure was damaged? Belongings ruined?
Once you’re able to safely return to your home, videotape the damage – before you even pick up a single piece of rubbish on your property. Make sure you have accurate documentation and evidence of damage for your insurance company.
If you have a “before” video of your property, all the better. You can present the “before” and “after” tape of your property when the adjuster comes a-callin’.
Then, call your insurance company. After it assesses the damage, you can ask your insurer for recommendations for approved contractors. These will be contractors that have worked with your insurer before, and they will work in tandem to get the job done right, and without additional costs for you.
BEWARE OF DOOR-TO-DOOR GUYS
If someone knocks on your door offering services, be suspicious. In fact, kick ‘em off the front porch (if you still have one). Of course you want repairs done fast, but do you really want a contractor who’s selling himself on a street corner?
References from friends and family members are often a great way to start. If someone you know and trust was happy with the work done by a contractor, you’re off to a good start.
But this is also where patience comes in. If you call a recommended contractor, it’s possible the business will already be booked for weeks in the future. Frustrating for sure, and it’s understandable that you want the work done, well, yesterday.
If you find someone who is available immediately, think about why this person is so readily available – especially at a time when home contractors should be quite busy.
CHECK THEM OUT
If you find a contractor you think will work for you, check out the company. Ask the contractor for a copy of his license number, and for liability insurance policy information.
Then check it out.
Article source: http://www.thefinancialphysician.com/blog/?p=7757
