Avoiding Post-Disaster Scams and Fraud

SEE IT!

SHOOT A PICTURE/VIDEO OF IT!

SAVE IT!

BUT DON’T SEND IT. (YET)

Our hearts are with you.

Our help, whenever and wherever you need it,

To Repair. Rebuild. Recover.

Kentucky’s asking the President for help.

But until it’s granted, don’t try to file a claim with FEMA.

Either in person, or online.

It’ll be denied.

Until the Declaration comes,

And the claim can be verified.

Instead: DOCUMENT YOUR DAMAGE.

In pictures, before you start to clear or clean up.

Save your receipts; for cleaning supplies.

For repairs.

And for replacing what’s lost or destroyed.

We know the healing takes time.

But we’ll get through this.

Together.

Protect Yourself from Scams: Check Before You Pay!

· Never pay the full amount up front. Reputable contractors will not ask for all the money before doing the work.

· Check for a physical address and phone number. Be cautious of those who only provide a phone number or approach door-to-door.

· Ask for a written contract. It should include the scope of work, materials, cost, and a timeline.

· Request proof of insurance. Make sure they have liability and workers’ compensation coverage.

· Verify business licenses. Ask to see their business license and check with the local city or county office.

· Get multiple estimates. Don’t rush — compare prices and services from at least two or three contractors.

· Check references. Ask for recent customers you can contact, and follow up with them.

· Search online reviews. Look up the business name with keywords like “scam,” “complaint,” or “review.”

· Avoid high-pressure sales tactics. Scammers try to rush decisions — take your time to review details.

· Don’t trust “leftover materials” pitches. Be skeptical of anyone offering a deal because they “just finished a job nearby.”

· Use local, known businesses when possible. They’re more likely to stand behind their work and be available for follow-up.

· Report suspicious behavior. Contact your local authorities or the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office to report potential fraud.