Avoiding Scams after a Disaster
Attorney General Steve Six warns Kansans to be wary as they begin the clean-up and rebuilding process following the recent severe weather that damaged Kansas communities.
Unfortunately, the media coverage of a disaster area can often bring fraudulent contractors, price gouging and other con artists to a community. Follow the tips below to protect yourself from these scams.
CONSUMER ALERT: Prevent Identity Theft After Storms
Download a pdf flier of this information
File a consumer complaint about price gouging
Read the Attorney General's column about disaster scams
HOME REPAIR RIP-OFFS
- Do not allow a contractor, utility company or "inspector" into your home without verifying their identity.
- Contact your homeowner's insurance agent to file a claim set up an appointment with a claims adjuster.
- Do not sign a contract for repairs until you and the claims adjuster have agreed on the exact costs. (It may take a little longer than usual for your insurance company to respond and settle your claim after a major storm. Contact the Kansas Insurance Department if you have questions: 1-800-432-2484).
- Avoid price gouging by obtaining several estimates for the work that needs to be done.
- Never agree to repairs until you have a written contract stating the type and quality of work to be done, the cost of the labor and supplies and a start and end date for the project.
- Do not give a contractor a huge down payment. A typical down payment is one-third the total coast with future payments as work is completed.
- Make sure the contractor you hire has a local business or phone number. Contact your local Better Business Bureau to check their customer satisfaction.
CHARITY SCAMS
Consumer Corner: Safe Giving After the Storms, 6/23/08
Unfortunately, disaster areas often attract individuals looking to make a quick profit by soliciting for fake charities. Kansas consumers should use caution with any charity you do not recognize and only contribute to those organizations willing to provide written information about their charitable efforts.
If you are going to contribute, avoid cash donations and make checks payable to the organization, not the individual soliciting. For a list of charitable organizations registered in Kansas, visit http://www.kscharitycheck.org/ or call (785) 296-4565.
IDENTITY THEFT
Read the AG Consumer Alert about preventing Identity Theft after storms
If any of your credit or debit cards are missing after your property is damaged or destroyed, you should call the card issuer as soon as possible. If you don't have the card issuer's telephone number, you may obtain the information from your local bank, the Web site of the company or by calling directory assistance. If your checkbook was lost, you should put a "stop payment" on all lost checks by calling your bank.
If you are approached by an individual offering home improvement services or disaster relief, use caution providing your personal identifying information. Consumers should guard their social security number, account numbers and PIN numbers as close as possible, especially if they are in a vulnerable situation.
PRICE GOUGING
Unfortunately, disaster areas often experience a sudden, dramatic increase in prices for items that are in demand. Most Kansas businesses with roots in their community will not engage in price gouging, but that does not mean it does not occur. I encourage any Kansas consumer who is a witness of price gouging in their community to contact the Attorney General's Office.
If consumers need further assistance, contact the Attorney General's Office of Consumer Protection at 785-296-3751 or 1-800-432-2310.
Visit our Online Consumer Tips and Consumer Publications page for additional tips information.
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