Wisconsin Senior Medicare Patrol

The Wisconsin Better Business Bureau is on the lookout for scam artists ready to cash in on recent storm damage.

These “storm chasers” follow storms and try to bilk people out of cash by never doing the work, or using inferior equipment or materials. These fraudsters may also not have proper licensing.

Before you hire anyone to do storm work, be sure to ask for their credentials and check out their company with the BBB.

Here are some other tips for the Wisconsin Better Business Bureau:

1. Ask for and check references. Trustworthy businesses should be able to direct you to references that will vouch for their credibility. Follow through and confirm the company’s reliability with multiple references before you hire.
   
2. Beware of price gouging. Some unethical businesses may be marking up their products or services by as much as 500 percent. If you can wait to do any repairs until this busy time passes, do it.
   
3. Make any temporary repairs, then take the time to hire ethical business contracts. Beware of companies who claim your home is structurally unsafe and needs expensive repairs.
   
4. Check with your insurance company, and make sure to take pictures and document any repair needs as soon as possible.
   
5. Compare bids, but determine which company will provide the best quality and not just the lowest price. Some “storm chaser” companies will offer rock-bottom prices, but may be unlicensed or providing inferior services. Legitimate contractors can provide a “Certificate of Insurance” that verifies they have current liability and workmen’s compensation coverage. Every consumer should verify that contractors are properly insured and licensed before allowing them to work on their property. 
   
6. Remember that reputable companies don’t ask for the entire fee up-front. Never pay more than one-third of the cost before repairs are complete. Also, pay by check or credit card instead of cash. These more secure methods of payment ensure that you will be more likely to track and retrieve your money in case of a scam.