Following severe storms in Illinois on Monday, Attorney General Kwame Raoul has warned residents to be vigilant against scammers targeting homeowners and business owners needing repairs for storm-related damage.
Raoul highlighted that scammers often quickly infiltrate communities affected by storms, pressuring individuals into making rapid and costly decisions about cleanup and construction work. He noted that these "storm chasers" exploit the situation to their advantage.
Raoul also cautioned that some scam artists might pose as public adjusters offering "free" inspections to submit claims to property owners' insurance companies.
"We too often see scammers take advantage of the devastation caused by severe weather and use it as an opportunity to line their own pockets," Raoul said. "As residents begin assessing damage and making repairs, I encourage people to use the resources provided by my office, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, and other reputable resources to ensure they choose a trustworthy contractor. People should be wary of any individual who solicits home repair or insurance adjusting services door to door."
He added that while general contractors are not required by state law to be licensed, municipalities may have permit requirements or other local regulations. Homeowners should check with local governments before hiring anyone. Public adjusters must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Insurance (DOI), and roofers must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
"In the immediate aftermath of a natural disaster, it can be hard to know where to turn for help. Fortunately, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation stands ready to protect the public from bad actors in these difficult times," said Mario Treto, Jr., Secretary of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. "My thoughts are with all those impacted by yesterday’s storms, and I encourage anyone seeking roofing repairs to visit our website and use our License Lookup tool to ensure that the roofer is licensed and in good standing with the Department before entering into an agreement."
Raoul provided several tips for avoiding dishonest contractors:
- Be cautious of contractors going door-to-door offering repair services or “free” inspections.
- Seek recommendations from trusted sources and use established local contractors whenever possible.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau's St. Louis or Chicago websites for business membership status and complaints.
- Obtain written estimates from multiple contractors even if there is urgency.
- Ensure all contract terms are in writing with a copy signed by both parties.
- Avoid making full payments until work completion satisfaction.
- Do not pay in cash.
- Remember you can cancel a contract within three business days if signed based on a contractor’s visit.
- For disaster repairs denied by insurance carriers, contracts can be canceled within five days of denial notice.
- Understand that public adjusters do not work for your insurance company and may charge additional fees.
Additionally, Raoul reminded consumers about state requirements under the Illinois Home Repair and Remodeling Act which mandates written contracts for work exceeding $1,000 along with minimum insurance coverage for property damage, bodily injury, and improper home repair.
Residents were encouraged to report suspicious activities to local law enforcement agencies or his office’s Consumer Fraud Hotline at 1-800-386-5438 in Chicago, 1-800-243-0618 in Springfield, or 1-800-243-0607 in Carbondale.