Protect Yourself from Storm Chasers in Canton, Ohio

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South & East Stark County Team!

How to protect yourself from storm chasers this season.

When storms roll in so do the storm chasers. The term storm chasers not only refers to the individuals who chase the storm for footage and research, but also the individuals who chase the wreckage. These people often are contractors that give perception of kind and helpful; however, they often solicitors that want to scam the victims of the storm for a quick buck. Not all storm chasers are scammers, but many lack the proper licensing, offer quick fixes, or make promises they can’t deliver. Make sure if a storm rolls into your area to remember these steps to protect yourself from being scammed.

1. Avoid Door to Door Solicitors - Scammers often follow the storm and come to you when you feel like a victim and try to be helpful.
2. Be present for all property inspections - Corrupt contractors often cause fake storm damage to your home to increase the price.
3. Get multiple estimates - Do not take the first price offered, but do not take the cheapest. It is best to get three estimates and choose the company that will be right for you and that you feel comfortable with.
4. Research companies - Find businesses you can trust. Check your state or provincial government agency responsible for registering and/or licensing contractors or even get references from friends and relatives.
5. Check License - Contact your community's local licensing board and state attorney general's office to check for complaints and disciplinary actions.
6. Be wary of places you cannot see - The corrupt contractors may cause damage to areas not visible to you to raise the price.
7. Avoid large down payments - A contractor may ask for a down payment, but pay attention if they want a large deposit or cash payment that's more than 1/3 of the job's total cost. It is safer to withhold at least 10 percent until the job is completed to your satisfaction.
8. Be proactive not reactive - Do not take an offer that may be a good price, but you have to accept on the spot. Do your research and find a reliable company.
9. Know your contracts rights - You can cancel a contract within three business days if you signed it based on the contractor's visit to your home. After natural disasters, state or local officials may extend that time frame. Remember to not sign a contract with blank spaces and always obtain an original copy with both party's signatures.
10. Permits - Be sure the company pulls necessary building permits before starting work, and verify that the name on the permit matches the company name.

Follow these and you will be much more likely to survive the scamming that follows a  storm. To avoid scamming, please call SERVPRO of South & East Stark County at 330-823-4088 and we will get the job done in a efficient way that will leave you content with your home.