Residents warned to be wary of winter weather scams
Special to The Clinton Courier
In the wake of winter weather that has impacted the state, Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch, Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney and the Mississippi State Board of Contractors (MSBOC) are warning residents about common scams and sharing tips to help protect Mississippians from fraud.
“Criminals take advantage of storm damage to turn a quick profit off others’ misfortune. Knowing best practices, being a savvy consumer and taking time to evaluate available options are the best safeguards against becoming the victim of a scam,” Fitch said.
“Familiarizing oneself with these tips can help prevent fraud or deception,” continues Fitch. “Of course, even the smartest consumer can sometimes be deceived. The Attorney General’s Office is available to help.”
“Mississippians are already under immense stress because of the storm. Dishonest contractors will only make the situation worse,” Chaney said. “To start, only necessary repairs should be made to prevent further damage to a home.”
“Permanent repairs should not be made until an insurance company has inspected the property,” reminds Chaney. “Door-to-door or phone solicitations, especially after storms, should be approached with caution. These contractors often rely on high-pressure sales tactics and unlicensed labor.”
“Consumers should always verify that contractors are properly licensed and in good standing before hiring them,” said Stephanie Lee, executive director of the Mississippi State Board of Contractors. “Taking time to check credentials and review references can prevent costly mistakes and ensure repairs are completed safely and professionally.”
Lee notes that “legitimate contractors will welcome questions and provide clear, written estimates before work begins.”
Anyone who believes they have been the victim of a scam may report it to the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office by visiting the Consumer Complaint Portal or emailing consumer@ago.ms.gov.
Tips to avoid common storm-related scams:
• Confirm the contractor is licensed, bonded and insured. Licenses are required for residential projects over $10,000 or commercial projects over $50,000.
• Request a Certificate of Insurance from the contractor and verify its validity with the issuing party.
• Ask for proof that the contractor is licensed. Contractor licenses can be verified using the CONTRACTOR SEARCH feature at www.msboc.us or by calling MSBOC at 800-880-6161.
• Contact the local permitting office or inspections department to determine whether permits are required for building code compliance. If permits are required, the contractor should obtain them.
• Confirm with the permit office that permits have been issued before construction begins.
• Require a written contract detailing the work to be done, materials to be used, a payment schedule based on completion of work and a timeline for completion.
• Keep a signed, legible copy of the contract in a safe place.
• Do not pay in full, up front. Reputable contractors generally charge for building materials as needed, reducing the likelihood of large upfront payments.
• Do not sign documents that give a contractor the rights to insurance claims. Contractors should be paid directly—preferably by credit card—so charges can be disputed if necessary.
• Avoid making payments for any work not included in the contract unless the changes have been submitted and approved in writing before additional work begins.
• Before final payment, evaluate completed work and ensure the contractor has confirmed that all subcontractors and suppliers have been paid to avoid potential liens.
