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Better Business Bureau® (BBB®) St. Louis has tips to help St. Louisans spot scams in the weeks following the May 16 tornado that severely damaged homes, buildings and trees in the metro area.
The St. Louis area has seen an outpouring of support from local individuals, nonprofits and businesses following the tornado. Unfortunately, while many people seek to help, the aftermath of a natural disaster can also bring increased risk of scams and fraud.
While BBB St. Louis hasn’t received substantial reports of tornado-related scams to date, it’s still wise to be aware of the tactics scammers commonly use in the days, weeks and even months after natural disasters.
Scammers might try to capitalize by impersonating the government, an insurance company or a repair company. BBB also frequently receives reports about ‘storm chasers’ after tornadoes and other severe weather. Be cautious if anyone contacts you out of the blue or asks you to pay a fee for help.
How can I avoid clean-up and repair scams?
- Be wary of "storm chasers.” Don’t give money to the first company who comes to your door offering to help. BBB receives reports about “storm chasers” who go door-to-door after major storms to get jobs but never return to finish the work. Avoid cash-only deals, big promises for immediate cleanup, high-pressure sales tactics, high up-front payments and making any payments without a written contract.
- If you have insurance, call them first. Your insurance company can tell you what coverage will be provided and if there are any conditions you need to keep in mind before choosing a repair service. Document all damage with photos. Never sign over your insurance check to a contractor.
- Research companies with BBB. If you hire a company to help with cleanup or repairs, research the company’s track record at BBB.org and get a written contract agreement. Ask for IDs, licenses and proof of insurance.
- Keep your bricks. St. Louis Public Radio reported that some volunteers and residents in neighborhoods impacted by the tornado are concerned about brick theft. Bricks from your home can be reused for repairs, so many sources have recommended keeping them in a safe place.
How can I spot different kinds of impostors?
- FEMA impostors: As of June 10, St. Louisans can apply at DistasterAssistance.gov for FEMA disaster relief funding including temporary housing grants, funds for home repairs and low-cost loans to help cover damage to uninsured properties. However, be skeptical if someone claims they can get you FEMA relief in exchange for an “application fee.” Real disaster workers will never ask you for money on the ground, nor will they call or email you out of the blue to ask for personal information. FEMA will also not send you a letter if you haven’t applied for relief yet.
- Government impostors: Remember that government officials won’t demand money, sensitive information, or a Social Security number from you in exchange for help. Don’t share personal information with someone if you aren’t 100% certain they are a real government employee.
- Utility impostors: Scammers may pretend to be with a reputable utility company and go door-to-door, asking for payment to “make repairs” or threatening to turn off service. Real representatives from local utility companies should be able to show you company identification. You can also call the company’s customer service line to verify if they are a real employee.
- Fake rentals: If you or someone you know is looking for a place to stay, keep in mind that BBB receives reports about fake rental listings. Often, these listings use stolen or edited photos to look legitimate. While many properties ask for a small application fee, it's a red flag if someone asks you to pay a security deposit or any rent before seeing the property or signing a lease.
For more information on disaster recovery, see BBB St. Louis’ resource guide.
