Following severe weather throughout Michigan overnight, The Better Business Bureau In Western Michigan (BBB®) wants homeowners to beware of scammers, sometimes called “storm chasers”, when looking to hire help to clean up. Homeowners should be wary of anyone going door-to-door offering storm cleanup assistance. They should also use caution when looking on social media for help. These situations prompt good-intentioned neighbors to lend a helping hand. It can also bring out those who are looking to take advantage of people during a vulnerable time.

Although homeowners may be eager to get everything back to normal, it is important to remember to take a breath and avoid making a hasty decision.

BBB® offers these tips after a damaging storm: 

• Assess the damage and document. Determine what needs to be fixed right away and what can truly wait. Take photos and video if possible. Don’t start your own permanent repairs, however. Your insurer might not fully reimburse you for permanent repairs without authorization.
• Contact your insurance company. Ask about your policy coverage and specific filing requirements. Save all receipts, including those for food, temporary lodging, or other expenses that may be covered under your policy. Your insurance company may also have recommended contractors.
• Do your research. Visit bbb.org to find companies you can trust with the BBB seal. Get references from friends and relatives.
• Only hire licensed and insured contractors. Verify the contractor has a valid license to do the work. While most tree companies do not require state licensing, roofers and other repair companies likely do need to be licensed. You can check on builders licensing with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs or call the Residential Builders’ Section at 517-241-9309. Remember, BBB checks every year to make sure all BBB Accredited Businesses have the necessary licenses.
• Resist high-pressure sales. Be proactive in selecting a contractor and not reactive to sales calls on the phone or door-to-door pitches with too-good-to-be-true offers on price and timelines. You should never feel forced to make a quick decision or to choose an unknown contractor.
• Get multiple bids and seek referrals.  
• Get a written contract and read it. Make sure any verbal promises are included, as well as the agreed upon price, specific work to be done and the start date and expected completion date. Obtain a signed copy of the final contract before work is started and make sure you understand it.
• Never pay the full amount up front. Contractors may require a downpayment to cover materials, but full payment should not be due until the work is complete and you are satisfied. If you have to pay a portion of the cost before any work begins, be sure to have a signed contract in place that outlines the payment terms and be able to see the items you are purchasing.
• Don’t sign over insurance checks to contractors. Get an invoice from the contractor and pay them directly. If the business allows it, consider paying with a credit card, which offers additional fraud protection over other forms of payment. Don’t sign any documents that give the contractor rights to your insurance claims.