With widespread damage reported to homes, properties and vehicles in Owensboro, Attorney General Russell Coleman is warning those in the Daviess County area to be aware of possible scams related to the recent weather event.
The storm, which swept through the area early Saturday morning, damaged schools – forcing several to close for repairs – and county buildings, including the Daviess County Detention Center where some of the rooftop HVAC systems were knocked out.
Local insurance agents have reported more than 10,000 claims have been filed as Kentuckians start the process of repairs on homes and cars.
As part of that process, Kentuckians should be mindful of who they hire to complete the needed repairs. While not all door-to-door contractors are scammers, some may lack the proper licensing for the area, offer quick fixes, or make promises they can’t deliver.
“From Thruston to Utica and everywhere in between, Daviess Countians impacted by last weekend’s hail storm should be aware of scammers going door-to-door trying to take advantage of people in their time of need,” said Attorney General Coleman.
“Our office is working with our partners in Owensboro to protect Kentuckians and deter these bad actors,” he added.
“You can’t be too careful. I had a roofing contractor show up at my home following the hail storm. He was persistent and pushed me to sign paperwork on the spot. I refused,” announced Judge/Executive Charlie Castlen.
“Do not feel forced to make a hasty decision to hire an unknown contractor,” Castlen said. “Get a reference for a local company from friends and family. Talk to your insurance agent. Be proactive in researching and selecting a contractor, instead of reacting to a door-to-door sales pitch.”
“As we work through this process, we encourage our residents to be patient with us and use proper caution for those offering to help,” said Mayor Tom Watson.
“Knowing our local companies cannot handle the sheer magnitude of reports, we understand people may be more likely to do business with someone who knocks on their door,” he added. “Something as simple as getting proof of a business license could be the difference between getting scammed and hiring a legitimate and reputable company.”
Kentuckians are asked to report scams immediately to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-888-432-9257 or complete the online scam complaint form.
To avoid becoming a victim of a contractor-related scam, Kentuckians should:
- Contact your insurance company. If you are insured, discuss your policy coverage and filing requirements with your insurance company. Ask your adjuster for an estimate for repair costs. Be sure to save receipts for food, temporary lodging, and other expenses covered by your policy. Ask your insurance company to recommend reputable contractors to assist with repairs.
- Research contractors or repair companies and get more than one estimate. Search for contractors on BBB.org, get a reference from friends or family, and check with your local government agency responsible for registering or licensing contractors. Be sure to gather more than one estimate.
- Resist high-pressure sales tactics. Scammers often offer “special pricing” if you hire them on the spot. Do not feel forced to make a hasty decision to hire an unknown contractor. Be proactive in researching and selecting a contractor instead of reacting to sales calls or door-to-door pitches.
- Do not pay a contractor or business upfront for their services.
- Do not sign insurance checks over to a contractor. Be sure to get an invoice from your contractor and pay them directly, preferably with a credit card, so that charges may be disputed, if necessary. Review contracts carefully, and do not sign documents that give a contractor rights to your insurance claims.
