Don't Fall For It: Contractor scams ramp up following storms

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - If you think you have storm damage, know that scammers are often right behind the storm. The Better Business Bureau warns that scammers will try to pose as legitimate contractors following events like the storms that hit several areas Tuesday throughout south-central Kansas.

The BBB advises doing your homework before making any payment. Many roofing contractors that are out the day after a storm are reputable companies in good standing with the city and the state. But there are also bad actors, companies often from out-of-state and pose as a local company.

If you think you have hail damage from Tuesday night’s storm, keep your guard up and ask questions.

“There is an entire subset of contractors and outright scammers who are monitoring weather forecasts in the hopes that natural disasters do occur so they can swoop in and pretend as though they are the saving angel ready to provide that much-needed assistance for those who are in a particularly vulnerable situation with the BBB.

Here are some pointers if you have storm damage:

Get multiple bids
Work with a reputable Kansas company
Beware of out-of-state companies posing as local -- Some will even use local numbers and/or fake addresses.
Don’t fall for high-pressure sales tactics
Check the Roofer Registry on the Kansas Attorney General’s website
Take your time and work with your insurance company.