Amid the swath of destruction left by recent storms across Illinois, residents are being urged to stay vigilant against repair scams. Attorney General Kwame Raoul has put out a warning for homeowners and business proprietors, cautioning them against "storm chasers" looking to cash in on the situation. According to a statement from the Office of the Illinois Attorney General, these scammers often move quickly to pressure individuals into making hasty and costly decisions regarding cleanup and construction work.

Raoul emphasized the importance of using the provided free resources from his office, mentioning that "Just as severe weather during Illinois spring months is inevitable, so too are the scammers attempting to take advantage of the devastation left in the storms’ wake." He advised being skeptical of door-to-door solicitation for home repair services or "free" inspections, as per the Office of the Illinois Attorney General . Raoul has recommended that the folks affected should seek out recommendations from trustworthy sources and, where possible, engage with established local contractors.

The guidelines for selecting a contractor can be meticulous. Residents should visit the Better Business Bureau's websites for Chicago or St. Louis to check if a business is registered and to scan for any lodged complaints. General contractors are not state-licensed, but public adjusters, roofers, and plumbers bear state-required credentials and licenses. Raoul suggests getting multiple written estimates before signing any contracts and never making full payment until work is satisfactorily completed, particularly avoiding cash transactions.

Moreover, Raoul advised, one should "be aware that you have the right to cancel a contract within three business days if you signed it based on the contractor’s visit to your home," as stated by the Office of the Illinois Attorney General . In disaster repair situations, if insurance coverage is denied, consumers retain the right to cancel the contract within five days of such denial. It's important to closely review the fees charged by public adjusters and to verify that any contractors or adjusters are appropriately licensed. To look up roofing licenses, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website serves as a resource, and the Department of Insurance can be called at (866) 445-5364 to verify a public adjuster's license.

Residents and business owners who encounter suspect repair offers are encouraged to contact local law enforcement and the Attorney General's Consumer Fraud Hotline (1-800-386-5438 in Chicago, 1-800-243-0618 in Springfield, and 1-800-243-0607 in Carbondale) to report any suspicious activity. Raoul reminded that all contracts for repair or remodeling work costing over $1,000 must be in writing as mandated by the Illinois Home Repair and Remodeling Act, the Office of the Illinois Attorney General noted.