Posted on September 22, 2017
Avoid being scammed after Hurricane Irma
Please see below the information from Broward County regarding potential scams following Hurricane Irma:
BROWARD COUNTY, FL - Broward County urges property owners to be careful of opportunists, con artists and unlicensed Public Adjusters in the aftermath of a storm like Hurricane Irma. Avoid being scammed and be suspicious if a contractor:
- Demands cash or full payment up front for repair work
- Has no physical address or identification
- Asks you to sign something you have not had time to review
- Wants your personal financial information to start the repair or lending process
Fifty four teams from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are in Florida, including Broward, helping people register for individual FEMA assistance. These mobile team members can be easily identified by their federal photo identifications and FEMA clothing.
Housing inspectors contracted by FEMA will also be inspecting damage sustained by survivors who have already registered with FEMA. When FEMA-contracted inspectors arrive at a home, they will display official photo identification. If the photo identification is not displayed, it is important to ask to see it. This helps prevent fraud.
Please keep in mind FEMA employees do not solicit or accept money from disaster survivors. Many legitimate disaster assistance employees may visit your property such as insurance agents, damage inspectors, and FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration staff.
FEMA does not have "approved" contractors. Beware of contractors who say they are affiliated with FEMA.
In addition, all legitimate contractors must carry insurance. Ask for proof of liability and workers' compensation coverage and then verify it by calling the Division of Worker's Compensation at 800-742-2214. Don't rush into signing a contract, and it is recommended that you get three written estimates.
To report scams or suspicious contractors, call the State of Florida Department of Financial Services, a Division of Investigative & Forensic Services, Fraud Tip Hotline at 800-378-0445, the Consumer Helpline at 877-693-5236 or their Public Assistance Fraud Hotline at 866-762-2237. Or, call local law enforcement.
Survivors who sustained damage or losses caused by Hurricane Irma in Broward County can begin applying for assistance online at www.disasterassistance.gov/ or by calling FEMA's helpline at 800-621-3362 for voice, 711 and video relay service.
Report damage to your agent or insurance company as soon as possible. If you make emergency repairs, be sure to document them, keep all receipts, and take photographs of damage before and after a repair.
Please refer to the following links for additional information to protect you and your property:
