Use Care When Hiring Contractors
Release Date: June 21, 2004
Release Number: 1519-015
» More Information on Ohio Severe Storms and Flooding
COLUMBUS, Ohio – If you were affected by the severe storms and flooding that began in Ohio May 18, you should be aware that some unscrupulous contractors might try to take advantage of you.
“If you have disaster-related damages, be very careful when contracting for repairs,” said Brad Gair, federal coordinating officer for the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). “I do not want you to become a victim a second time.”
Disaster officials cautioned residents not to sign contracts or make down payments for repairs without first receiving written estimates from contractors, and to avoid offers that seem too good to refuse. People should ask for references and check with relatives or friends before deciding which contractor to choose.
“Be alert for door-to-door solicitors who ask for large cash deposits or entire payments in advance. Sometimes the work is never performed or the down payment is never returned,” cautioned Dale W. Shipley, state coordinating officer for the disaster recovery and executive director of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency.
Residents can check with local permit officials, builder associations, and the Better Business Bureau if they have questions about specific contractors. Shipley also suggested that disaster victims call the Ohio Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section at 1-800-282-0515 or 1-614-466-4986 if they have concerns about people claiming to be contractors.
“Remember that federal employees and federal contract workers do not charge disaster victims for their services,” Shipley said. “If someone posing as a federal employee or federal contractor attempts to collect money for their help, report the person and their vehicle number to your local police department.”
Federal employees and federal contractors carry official photo identification and applicants may receive a visit from more than one inspector or verifier. If someone claims to be a federal employee but does not produce identification, residents should ask to see it.
The Ohio EMA coordinates State assistance and resources during an emergency and prepares the state for all hazards through planning, training, exercises and funding activities at the state and local level. This includes providing assistance to individuals and administering state and federal assistance to individuals and governmental entities recovering from disaster-related damage and costs. Ohio EMA coordinates homeland security funding, weapons of mass destruction training, anti-terrorism planning and training, and assists local and state agencies determine homeland strategies and priorities.
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: Tuesday, 22-Jun-2004 09:15:44