Beware of shady, storm-chasing contractors

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First comes the flood, then comes the fraud. State officials say “storm chasers” have made their way to Wisconsin looking to make a fast buck from victims of the recent heavy rains and floods.

State consumer protection administrator Janet Jenkins says people are more vulnerable to fly-by-night contractors in the wake of disasters. She says some outfits will demand up-front payments then leave without doing anything.

Others will stop a project to demand more money before they finish it. Consumer officials urge people to use local, reputable firms. If people use a contractor they don’t know, it’s wise to demand to see their registration cards and insurance certificates.

Experts say be wary of contractors knocking on doors – call the police to check them out. Consumers using a contractors should get written contracts with completion dates and warranty information, as well as waivers to protect against liens if a contractor doesn’t pay employees or suppliers.

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