Attorney General Jeff Jackson has issued a warning about contractor fraud during the rebuilding process after Hurricane Helene. “More than six months after Hurricane Helene, many families are just getting started with hiring contractors to get important repairs done,” Jackson stated. He cautioned the public to be wary of potential scammers seeking to exploit vulnerable individuals for financial gain. Jackson emphasized, “My office will not tolerate contractor fraud and will hold anyone who tries to defraud or steal from North Carolinians responsible. If you think someone is trying to scam you, file a complaint with my office right away.”
To protect against fraud, the North Carolina Department of Justice (NCDOJ) advises residents to be cautious when hiring contractors. This month, Attorney General Jackson initiated the Safe to Rebuild program in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The aim is to protect residents from scams and fraud post-Hurricane Helene. Jackson highlighted that NCDOJ “is making sure that would-be criminals know that we’re keeping a close eye on western North Carolina, and law enforcement will take action if we suspect property theft, contracting fraud, or other crimes that harm recovery efforts.”
NCDOJ is committed to providing resources to the community to ensure the hiring of reputable contractors who will perform safe and reliable repairs. Victims of suspected fraud are encouraged to contact the NCDOJ via their website or hotline.