Beware of Post-Disaster Contractor Fraud

As survivors begin to rebuild their lives after the July 2-18 storms and flooding in Central Texas, it is important to remain alert to people offering cleanup and repair services. Don't be tempted by offers that sound too good to be true - they probably are.

FEMA does not license or certify contractors. However, FEMA recommends using a local contractor, someone who is known in the community. Out-of-town scam artists may be the first to arrive at your front door after a flood. You can protect yourself from fraud by following these simple steps:

• Plan your project. Take time to scope out the project; they may require a specially licensed contractor.
• Get two or three written estimates. This will allow you to compare bids. Be sure to review the contractor's estimate in total (cost of labor and materials, timetable of payments, timeline for completion, etc.). There is more to an estimate than simply the bottom-line cost.
• Verify the contractor's license and insurance. Only work with contractors who are licensed, registered and have insurance so any potential accidents on your property are covered.
• Don't make a down payment or a final payment until the job is complete. Beware of contractors who ask for large payments up front to purchase materials. Before making the final payment, make sure you are satisfied with the completed work. Remember, if you didn't request it, reject it.
• Do your research to find out if a potential contractor is licensed to work in Texas. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation licenses contractors and the Texas State Contractors Board can look up and verify a contractor's license. Call them at 512-463-6599.
• Under Texas law, after a natural disaster or emergency, consumers are protected from salespeople who flock to devastated neighborhoods and may not have honest intentions. They are not allowed to require payment before beginning work - or even after work has begun - if their fee is not proportionate to the work performed. For more information, visit texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection/disaster-and-emergency-scams/disaster-scams.
• You may also report suspicious activity to your local police department or the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-223-0814. You can also report contractor fraud to the Texas Attorney General - Consumer Protection Division or https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection. Another reporting option is the Heart of Texas Better Business Bureau at 844-477-1099.

For the latest information about the Texas recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4879. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook.com/FEMARegion6