CONNECTICUT, USA — People across Connecticut are cleaning up from the storm on Monday that caused widespread flooding, and tree and wind damage, which is why homeowners need to be extra aware of scam contractors.
Natural disasters can bring out the best in people wanting to help but it can also bring out the worst in a few people looking to prey on vulnerability. The good news is you can protect yourself if you know what questions to ask.
“There are bad actors who use social media. There are phone solicitations. There are people who come door to door,” said Bryan Cafferelli, the Commissioner of the State Department of Consumer Protection.
Cafferelli said that in the wake of storm damage, don’t panic. Take a breath, take pictures and call your insurance company first.
“A lot of people forget that step. Some of these things may be covered by homeowners' insurance policies,” said Cafferelli.
If you do need to hire a contractor, get a contract in writing and make sure they are registered, licensed, and insured.
“Be wary of anyone who wants a large deposit upfront or is asking you to pay in some type of odd form like gift cards or cryptocurrency. We’ve seen it all,” said Cafferelli.
In fact, over the last year, the state has fielded 15,000 scam contractor complaints and has recovered $700,000 in stolen consumer funds.
“One of the most important things to do in the wake of a storm is to resist high-pressure sales tactics,” said Jackie MacKnight of the Better Business Bureau of Connecticut.
The BBB is another consumer watchdog agency. It told FOX61 that high-pressure sales tactics may include an offer that expires or that will only be given to a select few customers.
“In these town forums, they are really just trying to get any engagement they possibly can. Today more than ever it’s easier for people to purport to be someone they are not,” said MacKnight.
Both the Better Business Bureau and the Department of Consumer Protection have online tools you can use to verify if a contractor is legitimate.
Matt Caron is a reporter at FOX61 News. He can be reached at mcaron@fox61.com. Follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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