Jul 26, 2008 2:29 pm US/Eastern
Officials Warn Of Scams Following Tornado Disaster
DEERFIELD, N.H. (WBZ) ―
The State Emergency Operations Center is advising residents of New Hampshire to be aware of possible scam artists in the wake of Thursday's damaging tornado and thunderstorms.
Officials say scam artists often target those who are most vulnerable, including victims of natural disasters.
"The devastation the state has suffered recently is difficult enough for people to deal with without having someone trying to cheat them," said Chris Pope, Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management at the N.H. Department of Safety.
As residents begin the cleanup and repair process, experts say homeowners should get all bids from contractors in writing, adding that hiring local contractors is usually a safer choice. It's also highly recommended that homeowners take photographs of the damage before any work begins.
Residents should also be weary of requests for payment up front. Check out the contractor's referrals. Experts say don't just take the contractor's word for it.
And always ask for proof of insurance.
Consumers may also check the
Consumer Protection Web site at the Attorney General's Office quick links section, where there is a list of businesses that people have inquired about in the past. To file a complaint, it must be in writing and can be sent to
www.doj.nh.gov/consumer or can be sent by mail to 33 Capital Street, Concord, NH 03301.
Residents can call the Attorney General's CPB regular consumer information line at 1-888-468-4454 or 603-271-3641 to ask questions. The hours of operation are 9 AM - 3 PM.
Consumers can also call the
New Hampshire Better Business Bureau at 603-224-1991 to lodge a complaint. The BBB advises residents to get the person's business card and business address, or home address if they don't have a business address, before filing a complaint.
Governor Lynch declared a five-county State of Emergency Thursday to put all possible resources to work responding to the storms. The Governor is also urging anyone who suffered property damage to keep accurate records of all repair costs and to extensively document all damage. Homeowners should also contact their insurance company so adjusters can come to survey their property.
Non-emergency inquiries about storm damage can be placed at the Homeland Security and Emergency Management public inquiry line at 1-888-330-6764.
The state Insurance Department has established a hotline for consumer complaints or questions related to insurance issues. That number is 1-800-852-3416.
To report hazardous materials, waste or petroleum spills, contact the Department of Environmental Services at 271-3899, Monday through Friday during business hours and through State Police Communications at 271-3636 on weekends and non-business hours.
Donations to help storm victims should be made through Granite Chapter, American Red Cross, 2 Maitland Street, Concord, NH 03301, or by calling (800) 464-6692 or (603) 225-6697.
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