Be mindful with storm repairs
PROTECTED CONTENT
If you’re a current subscriber, log in below. If you would like to subscribe, please click the subscribe tab above.
Username and Password Help
Please enter your email and we will send you a password reset link.
By Jeff Snyder
MOUNT AYR, Iowa — In the past week and a half, Ringgold County, along with several of our neighboring counties, have seen outbreaks of violent weather that inflicted damage to many area homes. The inclement weather caused downed trees, peeled roofs and hail and wind damage which took their toll.
Unfortunately, these weather events often draw out storm chaser contractors vying for your business. These companies mostly come from out of town, promising swift repairs and fair prices. They even offer to work with the homeowner’s insurance companies to help with repair costs. A great deal of these contractors are just ambitious business owners looking to pick up quick jobs before retreating to their hometowns. Most are legitimate — some are not. Several months back The Record News published an article about a “tree service” that was preying on elderly home owners and charging outlandish fees to provide basic services. As a result, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s office, in cooperation with several other area law enforcement agencies, including those across the Missouri line, released a BOLO (be on the lookout) for these unscrupulous people. As a result, two men were arrested on criminal charges crimes of elder abuse via fraud. While this round of storms brought about a fair amount of tree damage, the hail events were limited.
The Record News wanted to put out a reminder to readers and townspeople about being vigilant when hiring a contractor. First, do your homework. Never sign anything on the first visit and always check to see if the contractor is licensed and insured for the work they are proposing. Next, check for reviews. Reddit is a good source for getting first hand commentary from people who may have already had an experience with the contractor you are speaking with. These reviews can reveal other customers and the experiences they may have had with the same worker. Finally, get all of your estimates in writing. Often times a written estimate will hold a contractor to a specific price and only allow a variance when something unforeseen arises.
For more information, please read the story from the Iowa Department of Insurance and Financial Services also located on page 1.
It is understandable that homeowners want quick resolution to damage problems, but patience is in order when it comes to these solutions. Ronald Reagan famously said “Trust, but verify.” Good advice from the 40th president of the United States.
