Beware of individuals posing as contractors after severe storms, says BBB

NORTH CAROLINA, USA — Communities across the region are facing damage tonight after severe storms swept through, bringing hail as large as two inches in some areas. While homeowners begin the difficult process of cleanup and repair, officials are warning that these vulnerable moments can become targets for scammers.

Let’s verify how to keep your home safe and what you should do after a storm.

Chris Hadley, President & CEO, BBB Serving Central South Carolina & Charleston

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is advising residents to be cautious of individuals posing as contractors in the aftermath of storms. Chris Hadley with BBB says these so-called “storm chasers” often show up from out of town, offering quick repairs that end in empty promises and lost money.

“Anytime you have storms like this, there’s gonna be storm chasers out there,” Hadley said. “There’s gonna be folks knocking on doors. In South Carolina, to do any repair work over $500, you must have a specialty contractor’s license through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.”

Hadley emphasizes hiring local contractors and checking credentials before agreeing to any services. The BBB also warns homeowners never to pay in cash or hand over a check as a deposit.

Following a damaging storm, the BBB recommends homeowners take these steps:

Assess the damage and take photos.Contact your insurance company immediately.Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage.Be cautious when hiring a contractor and verify their credentials.Read and understand anything you are asked to sign.

“A good contractor will help you make informed decisions,” Hadley said. “If someone’s pressuring you with a ‘today only’ deal, refuses to show licenses, or won’t provide bonding information, those are major red flags.”

Insurance companies can also be a valuable resource for recommending reputable service providers.

You can find more tips at BBB.org.

Here are some tips to avoid becoming a victim of a scam: 

Emotional appeal – Any pitch that ratchets up your emotion will inhibit your rational judgment.  

Sense of urgency – You MUST act now, or else.  

Request for unorthodox payment – Gift cards, prepaid credit cards, wire transfers, etc.  

Explanations that don’t ring true – If your new “landlord” can’t show you the inside of the house, that could be because they don’t own it.  

You won, now pay up – It’s not a prize if you have to pay for it. Taxes, fees, shipping, whatever.  

Too good to be true – That’s because it’s not true. Sorry, your long-lost relative didn’t die, leaving you millions. That car you bought online for a third of its Kelly Blue Book value doesn’t really exist. The son of a billionaire diamond broker didn’t “swipe right” on you and fall instantly in love. That work-at-home job paying you hundreds of dollars an hour for stuffing envelopes isn’t real. 

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