Here’s How To Avoid Insurance & Contractor Scams
In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, it’s time for Southwest Florida to recover and rebuild. Sadly, there are scammers looking to pull a fast one and try to take cash out of your wallet. St. Petersburg Police posted four tips to avoid getting taken by fake insurance companies or crooked contractors.
Don’t answer this call…
If you get a phone call that you didn’t ask for from someone claiming to be with your insurance company, don’t give out any information to “verify” your account.
Who you SHOULD call…
If you get one of those suspicious calls, hang up! Then, call your insurance company to see if there was any legitimate reason for a call. Chances are it was a fraud.
The contractor says…
If a contractor says they work directly with your insurance company, be skeptical. Do NOT give them your policy number, your coverage amounts, or any other kind of personal information they can use and possibly abuse.
Check on that contractor…
Don’t take a contractor at their word if they say they are licensed and insured. Do your research and check on them at myfloridalicense.com. Plus if you had an issue with the contractor, you can file a complaint.
Just a little critical thinking and research can help you avoid insurance and contractors scams. [SOURCE St. Petersburg Police]
Photos From the Ground: Weekend Clean Up In South Florida After Hurricane Ian
