Texas Wildfire Victims Warned of Con Artists
Release Date: February 6, 2006
Release Number: 1624-007
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AUSTIN, Texas – Federal and state officials caution Texans who lost homes or other property to the recent wildfires that unscrupulous contractors prey on disaster victims.
“After wildfires claimed three lives, burned 589,000 acres and damaged more than 345 homes, victims are now faced with a Human Disaster…fraudulent contractors,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Sandy Coachman. “Federal law enforces strict penalties for those who would commit crimes against disaster victims.”
“Sadly, scam artists take advantage of tragedies such as these, seeking to cheat victims who are trying to rebuild their lives,” said Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott. “I urge Texans who have suffered damage from these wildfires to be careful when deciding whom to hire to repair their damaged property.”
Abbott offered the following tips:
- Get more than one estimate and don’t be pushed into signing a contract immediately.
- Ask the Better Business Bureau if the company has had any complaints.
- Get references from the previous customers and check them out.
- Get the salesperson’s license plate number.
- Deal with local firms, if possible.
- Get everything in writing and keep these documents in a safe place.
- Do not sign a contract with blank spaces. Dishonest salespersons may enter unacceptable terms later.
- Ask for proof of insurance.
- Never pay 100 percent up front. Arrange for an independent agent to inspect the completed work before making full payment.
- Ask whether the contractor will place a lien, security interest or mortgage against your property.
- Ask for guarantees in writing.
“If Texans encounter any fraud or deception, they should report it to my office. I will not stand for dishonest businesses that prey on people who already have suffered,” said Attorney General Abbott.
Texans are urged to file complaints about unscrupulous contractors by calling the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-252-8011 or by filing a complaint on the Attorney General’s Web site at www.oag.state.tx.us. Abbott asked consumers to provide specific information about the business, including address or specific location, contact information, and the price the business advertises and the actual charges for a particular job.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses from the wildfires should register with FEMA by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the hearing-and-speech impaired. Registrations also can be made online at www.fema.gov.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Friday, 19-May-2006 11:14:02