Hopefully our area won't get much damage from "Ian" as the storm makes its way up into our area, but it's best to be prepared. Natural disasters like severe storms, tornadoes, hurricanes, and flooding often bring out the best in people, as strangers reach out to help others in need; but unfortunately, the aftermath of severe weather can also bring out contractors looking to take advantage of those who have already been victimized by storm damage.
Your Better Business Bureau is warning homeowners to beware of "storm chasers" and out-of-town contractors soliciting business if we have damage in our area. They may lack the proper licensing for our area, offer quick fixes, or make big promises they can't deliver.
There are some things you should do when hiring any contractor (such as getting three estimates, getting everything in writing, and paying with a credit card). You can read more by visiting BBB's tips on hiring a contractor.
BBB also offers these tips for homeowners dealing with storm or flood damage:
- Contact your insurance company. Ask about your policy coverage and specific filing requirements. Save all receipts, including those for food, temporary lodging, or other expenses that may be covered under your policy. Your insurance company may also have recommended contractors.
- Do your research. Find businesses you can trust on BBB.org or call BBB at 423-266-6144. Also check state or county licensing offices to confirm registration and/or licensing for contractors. Get references from friends and relatives.
- Resist high-pressure sales. Some storm chasers use tactics such as the "good deal" you'll get only if you hire the contractor on the spot. Be proactive in selecting a contractor and not reactive to sales calls on the phone or door-to-door pitches. Disaster victims should never feel forced to choose an unknown contractor.
- Be especially careful of door-to-door contractors. Be watchful for red flags, such as claims that they've spotted roof damage from the street that they assure will be approved by insurance. Don't invite someone who comes door-to-door into your home. Don't sign any documents that give the contractor any rights to your insurance claims. If you have questions, contact your insurance company or agent.
If you're interested in getting a quote from someone who came door-to-door, be sure to ask for identification and a business card. Check their vehicle for a business name, phone number, and license plates to see if they are local or from another state. Take the time to research them before making a decision.
- Be wary regarding places you can't see. While most contractors abide by the law, be careful allowing someone you don't know to inspect your roof and other areas of your house. An unethical contractor may actually create damage to get work. The same goes for attics, crawl spaces, ducts, and other places you cannot easily access or see for yourself.
- Don't sign over insurance checks to contractors. Get an invoice from the contractor and pay them directly (preferably with a credit card, which offers additional fraud protection over other forms of payment).
BBB warns reputable contractors to be careful: BBB is also warning contractors to beware of storm chasers who offer to pay local construction companies substantial amounts of money to use the business's established name, reputation, and phone. They typically masquerade as the local business, collect the insurance money, and then move on, leaving the genuine business to deal with unsatisfied customers due to faulty workmanship, unfinished work, or unfulfilled warranties.
BBB also offers many more tips on storm damage related topics, including: BBB storm resources, tips to help you find a reputable tree service company you can trust, and BBB's tips on hiring a contractor.
Shred day is set for October 22nd
BBB will host its free bi-annual Shred Day in partnership with the Times Free Press, River City Shredding, Resource 1 Tier 3 Data Security and the Hamilton County Coalition on Saturday, October 22nd from 9:00am to noon. (Shredding will end earlier if trucks fill up).
The event will be held in Coca Cola Bottling Company's parking lot at 2111 W. Shepherd Rd. in Chattanooga, which is located just off exit 1A (Airport exit) from Hwy 153.
This is an opportunity for residents to have sensitive documents shredded, hard drives destroyed, electronics recycled, and unneeded prescription drugs dropped off for safe disposal. Please limit documents to three large trash bags per person. For more information, please visit bbb.org/Chattanooga or call 423-266-6144.
Michele Mason is president of the Better Business Bureau in Chattanooga