How Do I Avoid Contractor Scams After a Storm?

After a storm, be wary of anyone who knocks on your door offering repairs or a free inspection. The Illinois Attorney General warns that storm chasers push fast, costly decisions. Say no, call a contractor you chose yourself, get a written estimate, never pay in cash, and do not pay in full before the work is done.

Why do scams spike after storms?

The Illinois Attorney General's consumer alert on storm-related repair scams (May 27, 2025) says scammers often move quickly into communities to take advantage of people with damaged homes. It says these "storm chasers" pressure people into quick and often expensive decisions about cleanup and construction work.

The alert also warns that some scam artists pose as public adjusters offering "free" inspections to help with insurance claims.

What are the red flags?

• Someone you did not call knocks on your door offering repairs or a "free" inspection. The Attorney General says to be wary of anyone who solicits home repair or insurance adjusting services door to door.
• Pressure to sign today. The alert says to shop around even if you need to act quickly, and not to be rushed into a deal.
• A request for cash, or for full payment before the work is done.
• A roofer or adjuster without a license, or a license in a different name than the business card or truck.
• A public adjuster who wants you to use a specific contractor, or whose fee you cannot find in writing.
• A promise that they will handle everything with your insurance company.
• Someone claiming to be from a government agency and asking for bank details. The Attorney General notes past reports of FEMA impersonators, and the FTC's weather emergency guidance advises that anyone asking for money to help you qualify for FEMA aid is a scammer.

How do I say no?

You do not owe a stranger a long explanation. Short scripts work:

• "No thank you. I already have someone coming."
• "I don't sign anything the same day. Leave a card, and I'll call if I need you."
• "I'll check your license first. Please give me the name on it."
• "I'll call my insurance company before I talk to anyone else."

If someone stays after you have said no, close the door and call local police. The Attorney General encourages residents to call local law enforcement and its Consumer Fraud Hotline to report suspicious activity.

What should I do first after storm damage?

1. Make it safe. Stay away from downed lines and unstable structures.

2. Document. Take photos and video of the damage before anything is moved.

3. Call your insurer. The Attorney General notes that if you submit a claim, your insurance company will likely provide an adjuster at no additional cost to you.

4. Limit further damage. Reasonable temporary steps, like covering a hole, are often expected. Keep receipts.

5. Then shop around. Get written estimates from more than one contractor.

How do I check a contractor?

Follow the Attorney General's advice:

• Ask people you know and trust for recommendations, and use established local contractors when possible.
• Check the Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois for membership and complaints.
• Contact the Attorney General's Consumer Fraud Bureau to ask whether consumers have filed complaints.
• Verify a roofer on the IDFPR roofing license search, and a public adjuster on the Department of Insurance site or by calling (866) 445-5364.
• Ask your village or city about permits. The Attorney General says general contractors are not required by state law to be licensed, but municipalities may require permits or have other local requirements.

For more, see How do I vet a handyman on the North Shore? and Which repairs need a permit in North Shore towns?

What do I need in writing?

For repair or remodeling work over $1,000, the Illinois Home Repair and Remodeling Act requires a written contract signed by both sides, according to the Attorney General. See What does the Illinois Home Repair and Remodeling Act require?

Also from the Attorney General:

• Get all terms in writing and keep a copy of the signed contract.
• Never make full payment until all work is completed to your satisfaction.
• Never pay in cash.
• You have three business days to cancel a contract if you signed it based on the contractor's visit to your home.
• For disaster repair, if your insurer denies coverage, you have the right to cancel within five days of the denial and within 30 days of receiving the proof of loss from your insurer. The Attorney General's Know Your Rights guide words this timing a little differently, so confirm it before relying on it.

Which repairs go to licensed contractors?

Roof, plumbing and electrical damage goes to licensed independent contractors, not a handyman. After a storm, Enhaus can help with the smaller items on your list. Get the list in order first. See Handyman vs. licensed contractor in Illinois.

FAQ

Can I trust a contractor who has a truck and a sign?

Not by that alone. The Attorney General says to check that the name on a license matches the business card or truck, and to verify licenses with the state agencies.

Is a free inspection a scam?

Not always, but the Attorney General warns about unsolicited "free" inspections, especially from people posing as public adjusters. You can get an inspection from a business you chose.

Where do I report a scam?

Call the Illinois Attorney General's Consumer Fraud Hotline: 1-800-386-5438 in Chicago. You can also use the File a Complaint page, and the FTC takes reports at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Should I pay a deposit?

Ask for the payment schedule in writing. The Attorney General's guide says the contract should specify the down payment, later payments and final payment. Never pay in cash and never pay in full before the work is done.

To send your list and photos, call or text (847) 877-1877.