BBB Warns Consumers to be Wary of Storm Chasers 3/17/2008 The BBB Serving Metro Atlanta, Athens & Northeast Georgia warns storm victims to be wary of unscrupulous individuals who follow in the wake of any disaster.  Possible scams and con artists may move into the area looking to prey on residents and business-owners with homes suffering tree damage and scattered debris due to the recent tornadoes and strong storms. Consumers and businesses alike need to be vigilant in doing their homework prior to hiring any company for goods or services in any situation. Particularly during any  natural disaster there is a sense of urgency to rush out, clean-up and put things back as they were. Stop! Treat this situation as you would any other situation in which you are about to purchase goods or services in association with your home or business. Be cautious of contractors or companies who enter town just to offer their services during this time of need. These individuals may be participating in fraudulent business practices that are only out to get your money. Ask for references and licensing information on companies in which you are considering to do business. Though these steps may add to the time it takes to make crucial repairs, it will save you time and money in the long run. With that in mind, the BBB offers the following tips to help consumers make wise choices during difficult times: • Victims are urged to seek proper identification from people claiming to be contractors, government representatives, inspectors or insurance adjusters. They should also take whatever action is necessary to protect property from further damage as required by most insurance companies. • If you are a victim and have homeowner's insurance, be sure to check the extent of your coverage, and whether storm damage is covered by your policy. Also, ask your insurance company how it will decide whom they will pay to do the repair job. At times, insurance companies will ask for the lowest estimate before they process a claim. • However, do not accept a bid until you determine the firm's reputation. Consumers are urged to contact the BBB at 404-766-0875 or visit us online at www.bbb.org to research a company you are considering doing business with. • Also, check for a permanent place of business, telephone number, certificate of insurance and where required, a business license. Insist on a written proposal that provides a complete description of the work to be done, the quality of materials to be used and starting and completion dates. Make sure you obtain all oral promises in writing. • Be especially wary of people going door-to-door in damaged areas. Often contractors are from a different state or do not have an established corporation, and work done by such individuals is often shoddy and expensive.  In your area, in order to gain your trust, many of these individuals will claim they are with a company whose name is similar to that of a well respected firm. • Check out the contractor’s truck. It should have a name and address on the side and the license plate to determine if it is current and in what state it was issued. Be aware that if you sign a contract with a company outside of that company's place of business, the Federal Trade Commission requires that the company inform you of your right to cancel that contract within three business days with no penalty to the consumer. • Many vehicles sustain damage in severe storms, and owners will make claims to insurance companies. Be careful of individuals who claim to be able to cut a deal outside of your insurance company. • Make sure that any person or firm that seeks to repair your auto glass or make body repairs has, if applicable, state certification. Ask for estimates in writing before you agree to have work done. • Consumers should get several estimates before signing any contract. Be careful to read and understand the contract, and do not sign a completion form until you are totally satisfied with the job. • Finally, never pay a contractor for the entire job in advance and avoid paying in cash whenever possible. The BBB advises that you pay a third up front, a third in the middle and a third when the work has been completed to your satisfaction.     Start with Trust by researching companies before doing business.  Contact the BBB Serving Metro Atlanta, Athens & Northeast Georgia at (404)766-0875 or online at www.bbb.org.