Iowa Attorney General warns Iowans to beware of disaster-related scams

E-mail this story

Print this story

Special to Daily News The Iowa Attorney General Office is warning Iowans to be on the lookout for con-artists trying to cheat tornado or flood victims. Traveling “scam-artists” sometimes migrate into storm or flood areas to capitalize on high demand for repairs and clean-up, but a shortage of contractors. Money may be available from disaster payments or insurance, and people may let their guard down when they are in a hurry to recover from a tornado or flood. Fraudulent contractors may drive through damaged areas, and may give a “hard sell,” offering low prices or quick work. They almost always insist that homeowners pay in advance — but then they fail to do the work or do minimal work and disappear. Follow these tips to avoid scams in the wake of a disaster: • Check out a contractor before you sign a contract or pay any money. Try to deal with an established, reputable, local contractor. Check references. Ask the Attorney General's Office if it has received complaints (515) 281-5926 or (888) 777-4590. • Get it in writing. Get several written estimates for the job, and get a written contract detailing work to be done, responsibility for permits, costs, and any other promises. • Don’t pay large sums in advance. Con-artists may just “take the money and run.” If you have to make a partial advance payment for materials, make your check out to the supplier and the contractor. If anyone suspects a scam, they should report it to the AG Office or local authorities. • Report price-gouging to the Attorney General. Iowa has a rule against price-gouging that goes into effect in counties with a disaster declaration. Price-gouging is charging very high prices that are not justified, and take advantage of disaster victims. • Visit www.IowaAttorneyGeneral.org for more details on preventing scams, for helpful links to FEMA and the Iowa Emergency Management Division, and for more information on safety tips for flood victims, the price-gouging rule, donation scams, etc. ——— Iowa AG: (888) 777-4590 www.IowaAttorneyGeneral.org.