Following a natural disaster in Northern Michigan, law enforcement is warning residents to be cautious of scammers looking to take advantage of those in need of home repairs. Lt. Ashley Miller of the Michigan State Police Seventh District advises anyone with over $600 in damages to ensure that they hire licensed contractors or residential builders for repair work. Legitimate businesses should have a contractor number that can be verified through a state database.
Residents are also urged to report any home damage through the state police website to assist in potential federal relief efforts. Additionally, individuals should contact their insurance company immediately to file claims and provide necessary documentation such as photographs of the damage. Anyone who suspects they have been scammed should save all records and contact authorities for assistance.
Attorney General Dana Nessel has reissued consumer alerts cautioning people to beware of suspicious offers, especially those that seem too good to be true. Nessel advises residents to read the fine print before signing contracts or making deposits, as scammers often rely on high-pressure tactics. Residents are also warned to watch out for impersonators posing as utility workers or government agencies.
Utility companies will not ask for personal information unless initiated by the customer, and government agencies will not reach out to individuals without prior contact. More information on common scams can be found on the Attorney General’s website. It is crucial for residents to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from potential fraud during the recovery process following a natural disaster.
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