PHOENIX – In the wake of Phoenix’s rainiest day in almost seven years and deadly flooding in Gila County, Arizonans are being warned about post-storm scams.
“Natural disasters can bring out the best in our neighbors — but unfortunately, they also attract bad actors looking to take advantage of people when they are most vulnerable,” Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said in a press release Monday. “I urge Arizonans to remain vigilant when approached by contractors or charities in the aftermath of these storms.”
Mayes provided tips about how to avoid unscrupulous contractors and fake charity operations.
How to avoid contractor and charity scams
If you find yourself in need of roof repair, tree removal or other clean-up services, be wary of unsolicited contact from door knockers or phone calls and follow the following tips.
- Get several estimates before picking a contractor.
- Seek referrals from friends or family.
- Talk to your insurance company to verify what your policy covers.
- Verify licenses through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
- Get written confirmation for the scope of work, cost and timeline.
- Don’t pay in full until the work is complete and verified, although a reasonable down payment isn’t out of the ordinary.
And remember, if a deal sounds too good to be true, there’s a good chance it’s a scam.
If you want to help others affected by the storms, donate directly to known, trusted organizations such as local food banks or the Red Cross.
One sign that a purported charity is a scam is that it asks for donations in gift cards or cryptocurrency.
Resources for researching charity options include Charity Navigator and the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance.
Relentless thunderstorms leave damage in their wake
Damaging thunderstorms battered Arizona on Friday and Saturday, flooding roadways, knocking down trees and pelting vehicles with hail.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which the National Weather Service uses for the city’s official readings, received 1.85 inches combined Friday and Saturday. With 1.64 inches at the airport, Friday was officially Phoenix’s wettest day since 2.19 inches fell on Oct. 13, 2018.
In Gila County, at least three people were killed as floodwaters swept away vehicles in the Globe area. Another person died in Scottsdale when his vehicle was submerged under rushing water at Vista Del Camino Park.
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