The NYS Consumer Protection Board (CPB) and the State Emergency Management Office (SEMO) today urged New York residents to be wary of anyone who comes to their home offering storm cleanup or repair services. In the wake of the recent storm, many New Yorkers were left with significant damage to their property caused by wind, rain and fallen trees or branches.
“Beware of contractors who go door-to-door offering deals to clean up and repair damage from the storm,” said Governor David A. Paterson. “We often see so-called ‘storm chasers’ who show up after a storm and seek to take advantage of the situation by ripping off homeowners.”
“Home repair scammers sometimes move in after a disaster because they know there are many desperate people who need immediate assistance,” said CPB Chairperson and Executive Director Mindy A. Bockstein. “It’s a time when people feel vulnerable and distraught, and they may let their guard down in their quest to return to their normal routine. But now’s certainly not the time to do that. Be on guard and know and exercise your rights.”
“It’s unfortunate, but we’ve seen in past disasters in the Empire State there have been individuals and outfits that try to make a quick buck off the plight of storm victims,” said John R. Gibb, Director of SEMO. “There is no rush to do a repair. Hire a reputable firm. Check their references. Get things in writing and, above all, never pay in advance of work that is to be done.”
The CPB and SEMO urge storm victims to exercise caution when hiring a contractor, and to heed the following advice:
“In the aftermath of a disaster, rushing to hire the first contractor you can find - - or hiring the first contractor who finds you - - is a recipe for a rip-off,” said Bockstein. “Take the time to make sure you’re hiring a legitimate contractor.”
For more information on hiring a contractor, visit our website.
The New York Department of State's Division of Consumer Protection serves as the state's top watchdog and think tank on a wide range of consumer related issues. Among the services it provides, the Division investigates and resolves consumer complaints, educates the public about product recalls, and represents consumers before public utilities and other state and federal agencies.