Recent weather-related damage may make southern Utahns victims to property loss twice.
Limited weather disasters create a perfect opportunity for scam artists to take advantage of inexperienced disaster victims, said Joe Christensen, director of the Insurance Fraud Division, in a news release.
There are specific groups that travel to devastated areas and pose as legitimate contractors, Christensen said. Most of these groups inflate estimates, provide inadequate work, and request money before providing the services.
Those affected by weather-related disaster should contact their insurance companies for legitimate contractors or contact the Insurance Fraud Division to ensure that contractors are licensed, bonded and insured. Licenses can be verified at www.commerce.utah.gov/opl/index.html.