After the Storm: Spotting Insurance and Repair Scams
When a major storm hits, you’re focused on keeping your family safe and getting life back to normal. Unfortunately, scammers see these moments as an opportunity. They target homeowners when stress is high and information is scattered.
At Wells Insurance, we want you to feel confident knowing what to watch out for, the common scams to avoid, and the steps you can take to protect both your home and your wallet.
Common Scams After a Storm
1. Fake Contractors
Uninvited “contractors” often go door to door promising cheap, fast repairs. They may ask for a large deposit or push you to sign paperwork quickly. Too often, they vanish after taking money or leave behind poor quality work.
What to do: Ask for licenses, check reviews, and never pay everything upfront.
2. Shady Public Adjusters
Some public adjusters may pressure you to sign over part of your claim with the promise of a bigger payout. High fees or aggressive tactics are warning signs.
What to do: Speak with your insurance agent first. They can explain your options and connect you with trusted professionals.
3. Fake Charities and Relief Funds
Scammers know people want to help after a disaster. They set up fake charities or online fundraisers to pocket donations.
What to do: Stick with organizations you recognize or research the group before giving.
4. Phishing and Phone Scams
Imposters may pretend to be from your insurance carrier, utility company, or FEMA. They’ll ask for personal information or payment to “speed up your claim.”
What to do: Never share financial details unless you are certain who you’re dealing with. Call the official number to confirm.
How to Stay Ahead of Scammers
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Take photos and videos of damage immediately for your claim.
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Contact your insurance agent before hiring help or signing agreements.
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Slow down and research offers that seem too good to be true.
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Trust your instincts if something doesn’t feel right.
Your Best Defense
Recovering from a storm is hard enough without worrying about scams. With the right precautions, you can focus on rebuilding instead of battling fraud.
👉 Wells Insurance is here to guide you through every step, from filing claims to connecting you with trusted resources. If you’re ever unsure, reach out to your Wells Insurance agent for help you can count on.
