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FRAUD AND PRICE GOUGING

The Attorney General of Texas urges all Texans to be careful when dealing with contractors and door-to-door salesmen.  Some are fraud artists who take advantage of people who are attempting to recover from a disaster.  Guidelines to follow include:

·                                                                        Contact your insurance company and request that adjuster visit your property, survey your damage, and provide an estimate.

·                                                                        When choosing a company or contractor for repairs, get more than one estimate.  Do not sign a contract a firm start date for repairs has been established.

·                                                                        Check the contractor out with the Better Business Bureau.

·                                                                        Get references from past customers and check them out.

·                                                                        Never pay 100% up front.  Never pay anything until you have seen materials, a work crew, and repairs are in progress.

·                                                                        Get everything in writing, including guarantees.  A notice of cancellation – giving you the right to change your mind within three business days – must be included.

·                                                                        Don’t provide final payments or sign off on completion before the repairs are done to your satisfaction.

Price Gouging is illegal in Texas.  Price gouging refers to the practice of charging excessively high prices for goods or services to take advantage of individuals affected by a declared disaster. 

If you think you are a victim of a home repair scam or price gouging, call The Office of the Attorney General at 1.800.252.8011 or visit www.oag.state.tx.us. 

IKE: Food Stamp Fraud:  2-1-1 callers are reporting that they have received a call from 512-973-9203, instructing them to enter their Social Security Number to qualify for emergency food stamps. Callers should be cautioned that this is not official HHS activity and may be attempted identification theft.

Money to Register for Government Assistance.  Remember, FEMA, Corps of Engineers or Small Business Administration staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections, or help in filling out applications. If in doubt, do not give out information, and please report people claiming to be government workers to local police. Operation Blue Roof is free to residents.

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