Attorney General's News Release

January 10, 2008

Nixon reminds southwest Missourians to watch for con artists when hiring for storm damage repairs

Jefferson City, Mo. — As residents in the Ozarks begin the recovery process from this week’s tornadoes and storms, Attorney General Jay Nixon says to watch out for scams. Nixon says thieves known as “storm chasers” target hard-hit areas claiming to offer home-repair services. He says storm chasers often go door-to-door, offering quick services for consumers who may be in urgent need of repairs, whether it’s a new roof, windows, siding or other work.

“Unfortunately, we know that storm chasers are part of the aftermath of any damaging storm,” Nixon said. “Consumers need to know there are crooks who want to take advantage of their misfortune by promising services, collecting money and not following through on the job.”

Nixon says consumers should be suspicious of anyone who:

• Offers services door-to-door;
• Drives an unmarked vehicle or has out-of-state plates;
• Demands full payment in advance;
• Has no address, just a phone or P.O. Box;
• Uses a high-pressure sales technique; or
• Has no I.D.

Nixon says consumers should follow these suggestions when choosing a home-repair company:

• Hire known or recommended companies. Check for complaints against a company through the Springfield area Better Business Bureau, the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline (number below) or the KnowMO link at Nixon’s Web site, ago.mo.gov;
• Check the credentials of companies: verify their numbers and addresses in the phone book, check for county or other local permits, and ask if they are licensed, bonded and insured;
• Get at least two estimates, and a third if possible;
• Get all agreements in writing, including description of the job, completion dates and price; and
• Make full payment only when the terms of the contract are met.

Nixon’s office received more than 1,600 consumer complaints on home repair in 2007, making it the fifth-highest complaint category. Home repair is always one of the top consumer complaint categories reported to the Attorney General. Consumers can report fraud by filing a complaint online with Nixon’s Consumer Protection Division by visiting ago.mo.gov or by calling 1-800-392-8222.

Listen to Attorney General Jay Nixon's warning about scams after storms

Read Attorney General's Home Repair work sheet

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818