COLUMBIA, S.C. — Many residents are repairing their homes or properties after Helene made its way through the state, but South Carolina officials say people should watch out for potential scams regarding property repairs.
"Be cautious of door-to-door offers. Unlicensed contractors who are looking to scam people will sometimes come by drop off flyers, business cards and that's usually a red flag right there,” said Molly Price with the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR).
She said that residents should keep the following in mind as they prepare to do repairs and storm clean-up.
“The main tips that we can recommend is be mindful of not rushing through repairs," Price said. "Unlicensed contractors who are really out in the community looking to scam people will be looking for those individuals who may be vulnerable during a difficult time."
"In addition to that, I would say also get multiple quotes," she added. "We always recommend at least three quotes of repairs. Another one is ask friends and family for who they recommend. That's usually the first line of defense is contractors that your friends and family have used.”
LLR says most residential construction in South Carolina over $500 will require a licensed or registered contractor
“Ask that contractor for a copy of their license or registration,” Price said. "That information can also be verified on our website, which is llr.sc.gov, and on our website, you will want to also check and make sure that name matches the name on that contractor that you decide to work with."
The department also recommends:
1. Document damage: Take photos before starting repairs.
2. Report issues: Report unlicensed contractors to LLR or local authorities.
3. Avoid cash payments: Use credit cards or checks written to the company.
4. Contact inspectors: Ensure repairs meet building codes.
5. Get it in writing: Don’t rely on verbal agreements. Get multiple estimates in writing.
Price says there are issues the department expects to see in the near future.
“Some of the issues we'll see at LLR over the next couple of months would be a lot of contractors that possibly came from other states who are unlicensed and potentially looking to scam people," she said. "We remind members of the public that if they need repairs done to their home, that all contractors making those repairs are required to be licensed here in South Carolina with LLR.”
As FEMA makes its way into the state for storm relief and recovery, LLR wants to remind residents what to look out for.
“We have had a few reports of individuals who may be impersonating FEMA inspectors," Price said. "We remind members of the public that anyone who comes to your home from FEMA will have proper credentials and proper ID for you to check, and they will never ask you for money to do those inspections.”