City to flood victims: Watch out for scams
Chicago is warning flood victims to watch out for fraudulent home repair companies that may try to prey upon residents affected by severe weekend storms.
"When people are distraught they can let their guard down because they want things back to normal, so residents need beware of companies out there looking to take advantage," Commissioner of the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Norma I. Reyes said in a release.
Residents who have suffered water damage are urged to not hire people who go door-to-door offering services -- legitimate contractors don't seek customers that way, the release said -- and should verify people who show up claiming to be from an insurance company or government agency, according to the release issued by the city's Office of Emergency Management Communications.
Flood victims are also cautioned to resist high-pressure sales tactics, ask for proof of insurance and check references and make sure the contractor is licensed, according to the release. The office also suggests people get written estimates and avoid paying for a job in cash or in advance.
The city is also asking residents affected by the storms to download an initial damage assessment form online and email it to flood2010@cityofchicago.org. Forms are also available at aldermanic offices, the release said.
Chicago will submit damage estimates to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, then to the Federal Emergency Management Agency seeking disaster assistance, the release said.
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