Attorney General Gentner Drummond is cautioning Oklahomans to be on the lookout for fraudsters after Tuesday’s severe weather. Drummond said the number of contractor fraud incidents spike in the weeks and months after storms and tornadoes.
“In the wake of disaster, these bad actors often target vulnerable homeowners desperate to rebuild,” Drummond said in a press release. “While the urge to quickly repair storm damage is understandable, taking time to carefully select a reputable contractor is crucial to protecting yourself and your property.”
The Consumer Protection Unit at the Attorney General’s Office has some tips to avoid contractor scams:
- Ask for referrals from trusted family, friends and colleagues who have recent experience with home repairs. Local recommendations can provide valuable insights into a contractor’s reliability and quality of work.
- Get multiple written estimates from different contractors. These detailed proposals should clearly outline the scope of work, materials and total project costs. This approach helps homeowners compare options and identify any unusually high or suspiciously low bids.
- Verify the contractor’s local credentials and community standing. Established local businesses with a physical address and proven track record are typically more trustworthy than fly-by-night operators who appear after a disaster.
- Be extremely cautious of contractors who demand large upfront payments or insist on cash transactions. Reputable contractors typically have structured payment plans and accept various payment methods.
- Watch for red flags like high-pressure sales tactics, unsolicited offers or contractors who show up uninvited to offer repairs. Legitimate professionals understand that storm victims need time to make informed decisions.
- Take the time to research before signing an agreement or contract. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
As this week marks National Consumer Protection Week, the Attorney General’s Office reminds all Oklahomans to stay vigilant and informed about their consumer rights, especially during challenging times like these.
Anyone can call the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Unit at 1-833-681-1895 to find out if complaints have been filed against a contractor or to file a complaint against a contractor.