The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection has received a few calls from residents about potential scams as they've looked to make repairs to their homes after storms. The agency is encouraging consumers to be on the lookout for so-called “storm chasers” who prey on families after weather emergencies because they know they need repairs done quickly.
Spokeswoman Lora Rae Anderson says some contractors take advantage of a situation that’s already stressful for families by offering to do home repairs at low cost, and not following through.
Consumers should always do their research before deciding who should do repairs on their home. All home improvement contractors are required to be registered with the Department of Consumer Protection. Their registration numbers can be verified online at elicense.ct.gov. Registration numbers need to be on all promotional material, including business cards. But Anderson caution that someone could put a number on anything, and if you don't verify that it's real you still don't know for sure if the contractor is legitimate.
When in doubt, Anderson says if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Consumers should not give in to pressure tactics, forego a contract, pay in cash, or pay in full up front.
Brookfield officials have received several reports of door-to-door solicitation offering tree services, often at extremely inflated prices. Residents are reminded to be wary of people trying to use the disaster as a means to profit. In order to offer services, a business is required to first visit Town Hall and submit their identification to apply for a solicitation permit. If someone comes to your door, and cannot or will not show that permit, report them to Brookfield Police using the non-emergency line at 203-775-2575.
The Brookfield Office of Emergency Management is cautioning people to be aware of a post-storm scam. Some people are claiming to be Eversource representatives, offering discounts. If you receive a call from someone purportedly from the utility, do not give out account information and do not provide any form of payment. Residents are also urged to be leery about people showing up, going door to door, offering tree services, pest control services or any other service.
