Storm chasers could be flooding into our area to scam homeowners in need of repair

BALTIMORE - From leaky roofs to soggy basements, all this wet weather we’ve had recently has many Marylanders looking for contractors and home improvement companies. But don't take the first one who knocks on your door.

From Irene to Lee, homeowners in the Baltimore area are cursing a lot of names these days as they clean up from the mess those storms left behind. The Better Business Bureau is already seeing the impact. In the days before Irene they had 86 inquiries about tree services but since that hurricane rolled through, they've fielded more than 800 requests for information. CEO Angie Barnett says, "It shows you people are in need and they're looking for a reliable source."

But Barnett warns there are plenty of unreliable companies out there, especially in a time of crisis. So-called storm chasers are likely in our area because of the bad weather we've seen. Those are businesses that come from all over the country that literally follow storms, trying to scam homeowners interested in fixing their damage.

In many of these scams, the contractors ask for money upfront. Barnett says other bad operators might do some work and then bolt with your cash, while some scammers may do a shoddy job and then disappear, leaving you with even more repairs and less money. Barnett explains, "You might be out money in your insurance company won't reimburse. The Maryland Home Improvement Commission isn't going to try and get you any kind of settlement because they weren't licensed, so you really have to do your homework right now."

That means contacting your insurance company first to let them know the extent of the damage. Then you should search for reviews for repair companies through the BBB or other services. And make sure the contractor you choose is licensed. Look them up through the MHIC and find out how long they've been in business, otherwise your quick decision could cost you. Barnett knows you want the work done fast, but she warns you’ve got to take time to think things over, "It's a hard time to be a very patient homeowner right now but you really have to be."