BBB warns of storm chasers, scams following Irma

As the clean up continues following Tropical Storm Irma, the Better Business Bureau is warning storm victims to watch out for potential scams.

 

BBB spokeswoman Dottie Callina spoke of the things to look out for on the Afternoon News Wrap on WDUN last week.

 

"If a tree has fallen on your house, water is coming in, they're in a panic, we get it," said Callina. "What we don't want to have happen... is that they have a disaster happen to them twice."

 

Callina said the storm chasers pose as workers or contractors to scam people out of money.

 

"They'll come to your house and say 'we can do all this, for a great price.' You want to make sure they are licensed by the Secretary of State," Callina said.

 

Callina said there are a few things you can do. First, be wary of any contractor who demands payment in full and up front. Insist payments are made to the company and not an individual and resist "high pressure" sales tactics, like a good deal that only applies on the spot. Get multiple quotes from contractors and get written contracts specifying price, the work to be done, time frame and other details. Callina said last, pay by credit card if possible for additional protection.

 

And, Callina warned citizens to know the laws when it comes to price gouging.

 

"If the governor declares a state of emergency - which he did this time - companies cannot price gouge you on certain things," said Callina. "Items such as food, lodging, gasoline, propane gas, lumber and other supplies."

 

Callina said the Better Business Bureau's business directory can also help storm victims locate accredited and non-accredited business. bbb.org