FEMA warns of scamming contractors in wake of disasters

As Iowans try to reassemble their homes and lives after the recent storms and floods, scam artists are finding easy pickings and fast money. FEMA spokesman Lew Wood has a few tips for Iowans whose homes were damaged by the floods, winds or Don’t rush to start repairs. Wait until a FEMA inspector verifies your claim of loss and document the damage with photographs or video. Wood says Iowans need to use caution and use their heads when people show up and offer to fix what’s been ransacked by Mother Nature. Wood says beware of contractors who come to your door and say they’ll do good work cheap right away. They may not be legitimate. He says to check them out with the Better Business Bureau to make sure they’re bonded and insured. Check with your neighbors to see what they’re paying for similar work and find out who they’re using. Write down their license plate number and driver’s license number of the contractor. Wood also says to never pay any money in advance for work as they may just take the money and vanish.