AG warns of flood damage scams

In recent weeks, much of the state has seen excessive rainfall which has led to flooding, including in the Saline County area where as many as 15 people were rescued from flash flooding in May due to heavy rainfall, according to Saline County Office of Emergency Management director Brandon Guillot.

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge is cautioning residents to be vigilant and protect themselves from scams and con artists looking to profit from the storm and flood damage.

“Arkansas is just one big small town and it is heartbreaking to see flood damage devastate our communities,” Rutledge said in a press release. “Scammers will take advantage of any tough situation to steal from hard-working Arkansans so I urge everyone to remain vigilant during the clean-up process and watch out for criminals.”

Rutledge has shared a number of tips for Arkansans to keep in mind when hiring contractors to complete home repairs.

• Beware of door-todoor solicitors selling home-repair work. To find someone reputable, ask friends or family who have recently used a homerepair contractor or professional. Consider contacting the Arkansas Contractor’s Licensing Board to verify that the contractor is licensed and has not had any complaints filed against it.

• Avoid any home-repair solicitor who asks for an upfront payment or who will not provide you with a written contract.

• Get at least three written estimates. A reputable contractor or professional will never try to pressure you to obtain your business.

• Obtain and check at least three references from your contractor or professional.

• Check with the Attorney General’s office or the Better Business Bureau to find out if the company has a complaint history.

• Obtain a written and detailed contract that includes the grade, quality, name brand and quantity of any materials to be used. The name and address of the contractor must be on the contract.

• Avoid paying for the entire job up front. Onethird paid in advance, onethird paid halfway through the job and one-third paid upon completion is a better plan, helping assure that your project will be completed. Never make the final payment until you have had an opportunity to inspect the work.

• Remember that all contracts resulting from a home-solicitation sale generally must include a buyer’s right to cancel within three business days after the contract is signed.

• Make sure all warranties and guarantees are in writing.

• A contractor cannot promise that your insurance company will cover the work done. Verify your insurance coverage and authorized contractors before you agree to pay for repairs.

For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumerrelated issues, contact the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office at consumer@arkansasag.gov or visit www.arkansasag.gov.