Blunt warns Southwest Missourians to beware of scams following destructive tornadoes

Nevada Daily Mail

JEFFERSON CITY -- As Southwest Missourians begin to recover from the powerful storms that ripped through their communities over the weekend, Gov. Matt Blunt encourages residents to be wary of scammers seeking to profit from mother nature's destruction. Vernon County escaped the carnage, but some local people do have family and friends directly affected by the weekend storms and may be helping others with cleanup efforts and repairs.

"Unfortunately, scammers see disasters as prime opportunities to take advantage of those most in need of help," Gov. Blunt said. "I urge Missourians to take caution and research any home repair company that shows up at their doorstep as they work through the insurance claims process. Missourians can avoid scam artists by working with reputable, local businesses rather than fly-by-night companies."

"Missourians should question any home repair company willing to do work for much less or much more than an insurance company or reputable contractor's estimate," said Doug Ommen, director of the Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration. "Insurance claim money should return a consumer's property to its previous condition. It should not be used for repair company profit."

Gov. Blunt and Ommen also advise Missourians not to rely solely on an insurance company's adjustment either. Contractors and adjusters can work together to settle a claim fairly and accurately.

Gov. Blunt and Director Ommen provide these tips to consumers filing insurance claims and choosing a contractor:

* Call the insurance company and speak to the claims person (adjuster).

* The adjuster will probably want to meet with you at your house to inspect the damage.

* Jot down notes and keep track of the dates of any conversations you have with your agent or adjuster.

* You are required to protect your home from further damage. This might include boarding up your home if there was damage to the building or cleaning up water from a backed up drain.

* You will need to provide proof of your loss; having receipts/pictures will help.

* Don't feel rushed or pushed into agreeing with the amount paid for your claim if you're not comfortable with it.

* It might help to have your contractor meet with you and the insurance adjuster.

* Most policies have an appraisal condition that can be used to resolve disputes about the amount paid for your claim.

If you have trouble or questions, contact the Consumer Insurance Hotline at (800) 726-7390.

* When choosing a contractor, ask for references and check them out.

* Ask for a written contract for work to be performed. If in doubt about the contract language, consult with an insurance agent or lawyer.

* Do not give payment in full in advance of the repairs.

* Never sign a blank contract and never provide contractors with a blank check for them to complete.

* Do not supply your contractor with your social security number, PIN or bank account number.

* If possible, remain on site when repairs are being done, or arrange for a trusted friend or family member to stay on the property.