Wisconsin Senior Medicare Patrol

When natural disasters like the earthquake that shook California over the weekend strike, scam artists are ready to plunder bank accounts of storm-ravaged families.

Be ready to avoid scams:

• Don’t immediately trust someone who just knocks on the door offering help for a fee – especially if you don’t know them.
• Never pay up front in full. Some companies will require a deposit before work begins, but not full payment.
• Avoid cash payments.
• Get their credentials. Make sure contractors are properly licensed.
• Get written estimates. Don’t get a nasty surprise when you get the bill later on.
• Check with the Wisconsin Attorney General’s office, or local Better Business Bureau, to find out if there are complaints about the individual or business first, or if they are under investigation.
• Work with people and companies you trust.

The Better Business Bureau offers this list of post-natural disaster information – including scam details.