Hurricanes Helene and Milton rampaged ashore and wrought stunning destruction recently in the southeastern United States with raging storm surges, howling winds and relentless rain. It may take years for communities to recover. But another challenge looms right now for exhausted storm victims: unscrupulous contractors offering bogus restoration deals too good to be true.
Don’t fall for their fraudulent pitches. “Customers tell us stories about people who lost thousands of dollars,” says Eddie Bruce, Owner, Paul Davis Restoration, Fort McMurray, AB. “These crooks promise quick, expert action and then disappear with the money. It’s simply heartbreaking.”
If you pay close attention, however, rogue contractors almost always expose their tricks. Listening carefully differentiates scam artists from reputable restoration and mitigation firms:
Scam artists: (after knocking on your door unexpectedly) “Hi, we’re working in your neighbourhood and noticed you need help repairing storm damage.”
Reputable companies: (after answering your call personally) “Hello, this is Paul Davis, how can we help you? We’ll be there in just a few hours.”
Scam artists: “We surveyed the damage already. We took a walk around before you answered the door.”
Reputable companies: “Our highly trained staff will arrive at your convenience, then conduct and document a thorough on-site inspection.”
Scam artists: “This is an emergency, so we can’t wait for full documentation. Sign now, this price is only good for a short period of time.”
Reputable companies: “Here is our written cleanup and remediation plan as well as proposed schedule and budget. Take as long as you need to review the documents. We are happy to answer your questions.”
Scam artists: “Mould won’t be a problem because we’ll finish so quickly.”
Reputable companies: “We have sophisticated mould detection techniques and equipment that we deploy on every flood project. We carefully measure drying levels too, to reduce mould risks.”
Scam artists: “We need a large deposit before we start. Cash or personal checks are fine.”
Reputable companies: “Here is our payment schedule. We offer flexible payment options including credit cards. Our company handles all transactions.”
Scam artists: “Call these customers, they couldn’t be happier with our work. But if we wait for you to check our references, we’ll be booked and probably can’t help you.”
Reputable companies: “We’re glad your insurance company recommended us. We have a great working relationship with your carrier. Let’s review our qualifications, licences, liability insurance, and excellent Better Business Bureau ratings.”
Another warning sign? These frauds insist that they have the equipment, people and time to handle all the work, no matter how extensive. Don’t believe them, Bruce cautions. “If an entire region has been devastated, you can be sure that only large, experienced firms like ours have the capabilities to handle extensive residential damages, large losses and commercial losses.”
Recovering from a disaster and need help? Call Paul Davis Restoration at 800-661-5975 to speak with a member of our team.
