Edmond Life and Leisure - May 29, 2025

From the Publisher

Avoid fraud after tornado or hailstorm

Oklahoma natural disasters like tornadoes and hailstorms can cause significant damage to our homes and properties. It is that time of year again here in Edmond. Having lost my home in the May 3, 1999, tornado where the winds were the fastest ever recorded on this earth taught me much but not about avoiding scams. When your home has been blown away and there is nothing left but dirt, there is not much to cheat you over. Instead, we made our planned move back to Edmond buying a brand-new home in Ashforde Oaks. I had been away from Edmond for a total of 5 months.

If you are looking for recommendations in Edmond we have two. I have used both companies with great success. They are long-term Edmond businesses and have a great reputation in the market. I can vouch for both. They are Red River Roofing and Salazar Roofing. The folks at Salazar reminded me of a few things to protect yourself.

“After a storm, it is common to see individuals going door-to-door offering quick roof inspections. It is important to be aware that not all these people have your best interest at heart. We want to remind you to:

•Be cautious of unsolicited offers to inspect your roof.

•Never feel obligated to sign anything to allow someone onto your property.

•Take your time to assess the damage and choose a reputable company.”

The best advice I can give those who avoided damage from last week is to read your insurance policy now. Waiting until after the disaster to read your policy is the worst time to do it. Three months before our home was wiped from the face of this earth, I had visited with the insurance agent and had him update some policies and limits that were in great need of doing so. It was in 1999, but it only cost me around $200 to upgrade my homeowner’s policy. It only took three months to find out what a great investment it was so please visit with your insurance agent at least once per year.

In the aftermath of storms less severe, homeowners are often in a rush to repair and rebuild, making them vulnerable to fraudsters who prey on their desperation. To protect yourself from scams and fraudulent activities, it is essential to be vigilant and informed. Here are some tips on how to avoid fraud after a tornado or hailstorm.

1. Verify the Credentials of Contractors

One of the most common scams after a natural disaster involves fraudulent contractors who offer repair services. To avoid falling victim to these swindles, always verify the credentials of any contractor you consider hiring. Check for a valid license, insurance, and references. You can also contact your local Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see if there are any complaints against the contractor. It is easier now more than ever to check out reviews of companies.

2. Get Multiple Estimates

Before hiring a contractor, get multiple estimates for the repair work. I get it that folks will be in a rush but slow down if possible. This will give you a better idea of the fair market price for the services you

need. Be wary of contractors who offer significantly lower prices than others, as this could be a red flag for subpar work or potential fraud.

3. Avoid Upfront Payments

Be cautious of contractors who demand large upfront payments before starting the work. A reputable contractor will typically require a small deposit and then payments as the work progresses. If a contractor insists on full payment upfront, it could be a sign of a fraud. All I know is that both Red River and Salazar required no deposit. I think the most I have done with any contractor, even individuals, was give them a third up front, a third half way through the work and then a third when we were satisfied. That was good for me. If they need money for supplies, write the check directly to the store where they are getting the materials and not the individual.

4. Check for Proper Permits

Ensure that the contractor obtains the necessary permits for the repair work. This is important because it ensures that the work will be done according to local building codes and regulations. If a contractor suggests skipping the permit process to save time or money, it is a red flag.

5. Document Everything

Keep detailed records of all transactions, including contracts, estimates, receipts, and correspondence with the contractor. This documentation can be crucial if you need to dispute charges or take legal action against a fraudulent contractor. Even though it is a well-known contractor, you should still take these steps.

6. Be Wary of Door-to-Door Solicitors

After a natural disaster, it is common for scammers to go door-to-door offering repair services. Be cautious of these unsolicited offers, especially if the contractor is pressuring you to make a quick decision.

Take your time to research and verify the contractor's credentials before agreeing to any work. You see these guys when they come to town after a hailstorm. They have magnetic signs on their car doors saying they are local. I would not use a door-to-door contractor to replace my roof or do any work for me. Only use a company that has a physical office here and has been in business for some time.

7. Use Trusted Resources

Rely on trusted resources for finding contractors and repair services. Your insurance company, local government agencies, and reputable organizations like the BBB can provide recommendations for dependable contractors. Avoid using unknown or unverified sources.

8. Beware of Phishing Scams

In addition to contractor fraud, be aware of phishing scams that may arise after a natural disaster. Scammers may send emails or text messages posing as relief organizations or government agencies, asking for personal information or donations. Always verify the legitimacy of any organization before providing personal information or donating.

9. Report Suspected Fraud

If you suspect that you have encountered a fraudulent contractor or scam, report it to the authorities immediately. Contact your local law enforcement agency, the BBB, and your state's consumer protection office. The office of the Oklahoma Attorney General has a division that fields these issues as well and if fraudulent activity is found they will prosecute. Reporting fraud can help prevent others from falling victim to the same scam.

10. Stay Informed

Stay informed about common scams and fraud tactics that occur after natural disasters. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and other consumer protection agencies often provide resources and tips for avoiding fraud. By staying informed, you can better protect yourself and your property.

Recovering from a tornado or hailstorm is challenging enough without the added stress of dealing with fraud. By taking the time to verify credentials, get multiple estimates, avoid upfront payments, and use trusted resources, you can protect yourself from scams and ensure that your repair work is done properly. Remember to document everything, be cautious of unsolicited offers, and stay informed about common fraud tactics. If you suspect fraud, report it immediately to the authorities.

Having gone through this so many years ago I understand it can be devastating. You can become like a deer in the headlights. What I will say is do not let yourself get frozen. You and your family need to work as a team.

Split duties up with your spouse and make sure you keep moving folks. Let the kids join you in making decisions. It makes them feel part of the solution and I can say they had some great ideas for us. It keeps everyone in the family busy.

I would encourage you to take this approach. How does a mouse eat a giant wheel of cheese? One bite at a time.

(Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure, may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)