Better Business Bureau | Greater Maryland is cautioning residents to anticipate a spike in door-to-door storm chasers following the first major hurricane of 2011 predicted to hit the region on Saturday. BBB and government agencies frequently receive a high-volume of reports of post disaster rip-offs that come and go following violent weather.
While there's still time to prepare, Marylanders are urged to gather food, water, emergency and medical supplies for family members and pets. A filled gas tank, a fully charged cell phone and list of emergency contact numbers for your utility and insurance agent are must-haves for every head-of-household.
"If your car or home is damaged by Irene, the worst thing you could do is make a rash decision or leap at the offer of a quick fix. It could really cost you dearly," said Angie Barnett, president/CEO, BBB | Greater Maryland. "Call your insurance agent, check with BBB, get it in writing and sleep on big decisions."
BBB offers the following tips to keep consumers from getting soaked after the storm:
High-pressure sales - Close the door on offers you must "act now." If damage is extensive, it may take a while to have your repairs done. However, if you use a rogue, unlicensed contractor, you forfeit significant protections under Maryland state law including bonding and insurance coverage.
Upfront or cash payments - Never under any circumstance pay for repairs upfront or in cash. Receipts are needed for insurance and warranty purposes. If you pay upfront, don't be surprised if some or all of the repairs go undone.
Handshake agreements - We all want to trust one another, but it's just not smart when it comes to home improvement. Get everything in writing. This includes the materials to be used, any warranty for parts and labor, the payment schedule and the date of completion. Ask for proof of licensing and validate the information by contacting the Maryland Home Improvement Commission, or in the case of tree service, the Department of Natural Resources.
Here are some other red flags that can help you spot a trouble on your doorstep:
- Unmarked or unprofessional vehicle signage
- Business cards with only a name and phone number, but no local address
- License numbers missing on vehicles, business cards and estimates
- Repairmen that just happen to show-up with left-over material from another job
"Don't forget to save those receipts," adds Barnett. "If the storm forces you out of your home, or to your local home improvement store, you'll want to keep everything in order so you can submit eligible costs for reimbursement through your insurance provider."
For more information here are some links that can help you before and after the storm:
www.bbb.org
www.bge.comwww.dllr.state.md.us/license/mhic
www.dnr.state.md.us (licensed tree experts)
www.fema.gov