You are here

Written by Adam Miller
How To Avoid Scams When Disaster Strikes

Texas has seen its fair share of disasters, including record-setting flooding, major hurricanes, severe windstorms, and wildfires. When these catastrophes impact homes and businesses, there is often a major response from assistance groups, federal agencies, and contractors ready to help rebuild. Unfortunately, along with legitimate assistance groups come scammers and fraudulent organizations hoping to make money off of both victims and individuals and businesses wanting to help in some way. Today's blog post looks at how to avoid scams when disasters strike to help protect homeowners, renters, and small businesses.

Contractor or Repair Fraud

When a major disaster impacts homes and businesses, owners often seek out contractors and repair companies immediately to begin the work of rebuilding. Unfortunately, not all contractors and repair companies offering their services after a disaster are legitimate. Some are mom-and-pop contractors or day laborers that offer cheap quotes but provide shoddy work or no work at all. To avoid becoming a victim of these scammers, ask for identification for any person claiming to be a government worker, contractor, or utility person. Also never give out personal or financial information to a stranger or individual claiming to help disaster victims without first confirming their identity and authorization.

Beware of Charity Scams

Charitable organizations are often some of the first groups of responders when a natural disaster devastates homes and businesses. Sadly, some may be fraudulent charities asking for donations or money immediately after disasters.  Every year, thousands of Americans fall victim to fake charity scams, donating money to individuals looking to capitalize on the goodwill of others during a time of need.  Scammers may approach businesses or homeowners in person, or solicit donations via email, mail, or phone calls. It's essential to properly vet and research any charity or nonprofit organization before donating, especially those assisting after a natural disaster.

Verify All Documentation

When a home or business is damaged due to a natural disaster, having documentation becomes critical to ensure proper processing of claims, repairs, and federal assistance. Without it, impacted homeowners, renters, and businesses can face uphill battles to get needed repairs and assistance, and it becomes far easier for them to become victims of fraud. To help reduce fraud, it is important to get copies and verify all relevant paperwork from contractor, repair, or FEMA contacts. Make copies of all their estimates, contracts, insurance certificates, licenses and permits. This documentation not only verifies the legitimacy of the contractor, but it can also help with insurance claims or to settle disputes if the work is not performed correctly.

Disasters can strike our area at any time, so preparation and smart decisions now can make a huge difference in quickly rebuilding and recovering from their impact. One of the smartest decisions homeowners, renters, and small business owners can make now is to have quality insurance coverage in place to protect what matters most. For homeowners and renters, personal insurance can cover the value of personal possessions such furniture, electronics, jewelry, artwork, clothing, and other valuables. For businesses, commercial insurance can protect business structures, business inventory, service vehicles, tools and equipment, and Workers Compensation for injured workers. Aegis is pleased to offer Texas homeowners, renters, and businesses top-quality insurance coverage at competitive rates. Contact our friendly and knowledgeable team for more information at 713-850-7622 or go online for a free quote!

Call Us TODAY!
713-850-7622

Get a Free & No Obligation Quote Today


 

CAPTCHA
This helps prevent automated spam submissions.