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Consumer Protection Division - Post Disaster Awareness

The recent devastating fire storms in and around Los Angeles County have reminded everyone about the importance of emergency preparedness. The District Attorney’s Office would like to remind you that it is also important to remain vigilant and prepared after disasters have occurred.

While many people go out of their way to generously assist disaster victims, some criminals see post-disaster periods as an opportune time for crime. They prey on disaster victims who are vulnerable to scams and dishonest business practices.

If you have suffered losses because of a disaster, beware of the following:

PUBLIC ADJUSTER SCAMS

This scam occurs when a public adjuster (one that does not work for your insurance company) tells you that your insurance company will avoid paying the fair value of the claim. He/she tells you he/she will work for you for a percentage of your claim.

It is wise to contact your insurance company adjuster first and obtain a written estimate of the damage costs. This estimate will help you negotiate with contractors. If you disagree with the insurance company adjuster, you can always hire a public adjuster for a second estimate.

Always keep in mind that public adjusters need to be licensed. Their license status can be verified with the Department of Insurance. If you decide to hire a public adjuster, ask for a written agreement and make sure you understand all their fees before signing it.

ADJUSTER/CONTRACTOR COLLUSION

One type of collusion scam occurs when an adjuster refers you to a contractor for a fee. Often, this referral is pre-arranged for inflated adjustments and results in a monetary kick-back to the adjuster.

VENDOR FRAUD

Some con artists represent themselves as professional intermediaries who can arrange low-interest loans, relief grants, insurance adjustments, and insurance claims for a fee. Unscrupulous vendors will often sell sub-standard material to victims.

CHARITY SCAMS

Following a disaster, some con artists try to collect funds for non-existent charities. If you are interested in donating to a charity, only give to organizations you know are reputable. Beware of fraudulent charities that have similar names to reputable charities. Whenever you make a donation, ask for written information and proof that your contribution is tax-deductible. You can check out charities at the California Attorney General’s Web site: http://caag.state.ca.us/charities/

DOOR-TO-DOOR SOLICITATIONS

Realizing that disasters place people in urgent situations, solicitors often use high-pressure sales tactics to separate victims from their money. Do not be hurried or intimidated by solicitors. If you choose to purchase products or services from a solicitor, get all their information and promises in writing.

FRAUDULENT CONTRACTORS

Fraudulent contractors fall into two categories: those working without a license and those who have licenses, but fail to perform the jobs they accept in a capable fashion. In either case, these kinds of contractors do not have sufficient resources, and their work is often sub-standard or never completed.

When hiring a contractor, keep in mind the following tips:

  • Only deal with licensed and insured contractors.
  • Don’t hire the first contractor who comes along. Get recommendations from friends, relatives, neighbors, and co-workers.
  • Take your time signing a contract.
  • DO NOT deal with contractors who ask you to pay for the entire job up-front.
  • Be skeptical of contractors who encourage you to spend high amounts of money on temporary repairs.
  • Ask a knowledgeable friend, relative, or attorney to review the home repair contract before you sign it.
  • Ask contractors for references.
  • Check with Contractors State License Board to verify the contractor you are dealing with it licensed.

FAKE DISASTER OFFICIALS

Bogus emergency officials, insurance representatives, and bank lenders are always a concern following a disaster. These shysters are very eager to capitalize on your misfortunes and con you into giving them money or private information.

After loss or damage has occurred, keep the following in mind.

  • Beware of identity theft. Do not give any of your personal information – such as Social Security number, driver’s license number, or insurance information – to anyone contacting you.
  • Always ask for identification and inspect it before letting anyone into your home.
  • Keep a log of names of the people you speak with along with the dates, times and a summary of pertinent points.
  • Contact your insurance company immediately to report your loss. Follow their instructions. Do not clean up until they instruct you to do so.
  • Take your own photographs documenting damage.
  • Do not rush into repairs or rebuilding. Consider all your alternatives. A good contractor will let you check things out before you make a decision.
  • Contact the U.S. Post Office to make proper arrangements to stop mail delivery.

The following numbers will help you determine if individuals you are dealing with are legitimate.

State of California

Contractors State License Board
Disaster Victims ONLY
(800) 962-1125
www.cslb.ca.gov
License verification
(800) 321-2752

Department of Insurance

Information for Disaster Victims ONLY
(800) 962-1125
www.insurance.ca.gov
To verify Public Adjuster’s license
(800) 967-9331
Insurance Hotlines
(800) 927-4357
(213) 897-8921
T.D.D. (800) 482-4TDD (4733)

FEMA

www.fema.gov/about/process

For use ONLY by people in designated Federal disaster areas. Be prepared to give your social security number, describe your losses, provide financial information, and give directions to the damaged property.

(800) 621-3362
TTY (800) 462-7585

Better Business Bureau

www.labbb.org
(310) 945-3166

Local Law Enforcement

In case of emergency DIAL "911"
To report a crime, contact your local law enforcement agency.

You may also call:

District Attorney’s Victim-Witness Assistance Program
(626) 927-2500
(800) 380-3811

District Attorney’s Consumer Protection Division
(213) 580-3273