Lamar County Emergency Management released information on how to avoid scams while repairing after Friday’s tornados.
“Unfortunately, natural disaster tend to attract con artists and criminals who take advantage of people who have been devastated. The best way to protect yourself from frauds and scams after a natural disaster is to stay alert and be cautious.”
Home repair frauds
Home repair and cleanup frauds are especially common after natural disasters. It’s important to be very careful when hiring someone to work on your home. Be wary of anyone who comes to your one offering rebuilding or cleaning services after a natural disaster. Disreputable contractors often solicit door to door. Don’t hire anyone to work on your home without getting references and checking out the business with the Better Business Bureau.
Also, confirm that the business or individual is licensed to do work in your state by contacting your local or state building department, consumer affairs office or state attorney general’s office.
Never pay a home contractor or any other vendor in cash
Don’t sign over your insurance settlement check. Only pay by credit card or personal check. Don’t pay in full up front. Always ask fro written estimates. Get a second opinion before hiring anyone. Don’t be pressured into hiring someone who is offering a “one-day-only” special or a discount for hiring him on the spot.
The best way to protect yourself from frauds and scams after a natural disaster is to stay alert and be cautious.
Fake charities
Con artists may pretend to solicit money to help the victims of a natural disaster. The made-up name of their group will often be almost identical to a well-known, reputable charity. Financial donations for Lamar County citizens impacted by the tornadoes are being accepted by The United Way of Lamar County at lamarcountyuw.org. check out any charitable group you’re unfamiliar with. There are nonprofit watchdog groups that evaluate charitable organizations on their performance in a number of areas. Here are some respected organizations to contact:
- Charity Navigator, charity navigator.org, rates organizations based on their financial filings and other information.
- Wise Giving Alliance of the Better Business Bureau, give.org, offers guidance to donors on making informed giving decisions.
If the charity isn’t listed on any of these sites, call the charity registration department of your state’s attorney general’s office to make sure it’s legally registered as a nonprofit in your state.
For non-emergency assistance, call 903-495-8722.
