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

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