Consumer advocates warn of scams following severe weather

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Following this week's severe storms in the Chicago-area, owners of damaged homes and businesses are being warned about repair scams.

Steve Bernas of the Better Business Bureau said scammers often go door-to-door in areas damaged by storms looking to rip off people who need repairs.

“They masquerade as good businesses, local businesses when they're not. They're trying to deceive you and create sometimes substandard work in your homes. So it's important to do the due diligence in checking the background of these contractors,” Bernas said.

“You still want to get two or three bids in the long run, you won't be scammed or fleeced by these substandard contractors.”

Bernas provided other suggestions for how to prevent falling victim to scams.

“Never give a contractor cash because they may be a storm chasers coming in, taking your money and you'll never see them again.Get everything in writing from them and check out those businesses.

“Make sure they have a license locally and make sure they're insured because if somebody gets hurt on the job, you could be liable if that company doesn't have proper insurance.”

Bernas also said it's important to get a written and signed contract that spells out all of the work to be done and how much it will cost.

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