BBB warns Greenwich homeowners of storm-chaser scams after nor'easter

Greenwich homeowners cleaning up after the nor'easter that hit Sept. 25–27 should watch out for uninvited contractors knocking on their doors.

The Better Business Bureau of Connecticut (BBB CT) issued a warning to property owners ahead of the storm, urging them to guard against so-called "storm chasers." These are individuals who show up after severe weather, offering quick repairs at bargain prices. The deals often come with high-pressure tactics and shoddy or nonexistent work.

The warning carries weight in Greenwich. Strong winds brought down trees and branches across numerous roads on Sunday, Sept. 27, with crews responding to blocked roadways throughout town, News 12 Connecticut reported. The Greenwich Fire Department reported flooding in Cos Cob and Old Greenwich on Saturday, Sept. 26, as high tide approached. Wind gusts hit 40 mph on Friday afternoon, Sept. 25, according to National Weather Service data, Yahoo News reported.

The cleanup is just beginning.

Connecticut Attorney General William Tong urged residents not to rush into hiring anyone. "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is," Tong said in a Sept. 25 statement, as Fox 61 reported.

Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli echoed the caution, saying a few extra minutes of research before hiring a contractor could save homeowners a lot of money and headaches down the road.

What to watch for

BBB CT flagged several red flags in its advisory. Storm chasers may offer a "good deal" available only if the homeowner agrees on the spot. Door-to-door contractors may lack identification or drive vehicles with no business name, phone number or Connecticut plates.

The bureau also warned that some unethical contractors may fabricate damage to win work. BBB CT advised homeowners to ask for photos of any damage and verify the images are actually of their property, according to the New Haven Register.

After past storms in Connecticut, people have posed as utility workers, going door to door and offering to reconnect power or remove trees in exchange for cash. Legitimate utility workers and authorized contractors always carry identification and never ask for cash, Fox 61 reported.

How to protect yourself

BBB CT recommends these steps before hiring any contractor:

Verify licensing. Check a contractor's credentials through the state's eLicense portal and look for the BBB Accredited Business Seal at BBB.org.
Contact your insurer first. Ask about coverage, filing requirements and your deductible before any work begins. Save all receipts, including food and temporary lodging expenses.
Never sign over insurance checks. Pay the contractor directly by invoice. Use a credit card when possible for added fraud protection.
Never sign documents that give a contractor rights to your insurance claims.
Get references from neighbors, friends or family before committing.

Residents who encounter a suspected scam can file a complaint with the Connecticut Attorney General's office or the Department of Consumer Protection.