Use Care When Hiring Contractors
Release Date: June 11, 2004
Release Number: 1520-014
» More Information on Indiana Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- If you were affected by the tornadoes and severe storms that began May 27, 2004, you should be aware that some unscrupulous contractors might try to take advantage of you.
“If you have disaster-related damages, I urge you to be very careful when contracting for repairs,” said Justo “Tito” Hernandez, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Federal Coordinating Officer. “I do not want you to become a victim a second time.”
Disaster officials cautioned residents not to sign contracts or make down payments without first receiving written estimates from contractors and to avoid offers which seem too good to refuse. People should ask for references and check with relatives or friends before deciding which contractor to choose.
“Be especially alert for door-to-door solicitors who ask for large cash deposits or entire payments in advance,” said Luther J. Taylor, Sr., State Coordinating Officer for the Indiana State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) “Sometimes the work is never performed or the down payment is never returned.”
Residents may be able to check with local permit officials, builder associations, and the Better Business Bureau if they have questions about specific contractors. Taylor also suggests that disaster victims call the Indiana State Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline, 1-800-382-5516, or visit their web site at www.in.gov/attorneygeneral, if they have concerns about people representing themselves as contractors.
“You should also remember that official inspectors do not charge victims for their services,” Hernandez said. “If someone posing as a FEMA representative attempts to collect money for their help, report the person and their vehicle number to your local police department.”
Federal employees carry official photo identification and applicants may receive a visit from more than one inspector or verifier. If someone represents themselves as a federal employee but does not produce identification, residents are urged to ask to see it.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA’s continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Friday, 11-Jun-2004 17:11:56