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- calendar_today October 12, 2026
BBB Alerts Residents to Post-Hurricane Repair Scams
In the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Central and South Alabama has issued a warning to residents about the risk of post-hurricane repair scams. The organization emphasized the importance of properly vetting contractors, obtaining written estimates, and reporting cases of price gouging as recovery efforts begin.
Key Contractor Red Flags Following Isaias
Evey Owen, Vice President of the BBB of Central and South Alabama, stressed in a recent statement the need for storm victims to carefully research anyone they hire for repairs. "After a storm, everyone wants their home or office back to normal as fast as possible, and scammers know it," Owen said. She urged residents to get everything in writing and read all fine print before signing any contracts.
The BBB outlined several warning signs that may indicate a disaster-related scam. These include:
- Contractors offering unsolicited repairs
- Pressure to hire immediately for a so-called “good deal”
- Suspiciously low project prices or unrealistic timelines
- Requests for full payment or large deposits before work begins
- Contractors lacking proper identification or a business name
Recommended Steps for Vetting Contractors
The organization advised affected Alabamians looking for post-hurricane repairs to research contractors on BBB.org, verify their licensing status, and request multiple local references. Additionally, residents are encouraged to get several written estimates and a detailed breakdown of project and material costs.
The BBB cautioned, "Be wary of bids that are significantly lower than the rest, which may signal substandard materials or work." They also recommended ensuring all agreements are in writing before proceeding.
Understanding Assignment of Benefits in Repair Contracts
Some repair contracts may include an Assignment of Benefits, a clause that gives contractors the right to your insurance claim and lets them collect payment directly from insurers without your direct involvement. The BBB advises homeowners to review every document thoroughly before signing and to pay contractors directly only when presented with an invoice.
Other Post-Disaster Consumer Protection Tips
Spotting FEMA Impostors
The BBB warned residents to be cautious of anyone impersonating representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or the Small Business Administration (SBA). Legitimate FEMA and SBA officials do not charge for disaster assistance or inspections and always carry official photo identification. Anyone promising disaster aid in return for payment does not represent FEMA.
Checking Charities Before Donating
Consumers are encouraged to thoroughly research charities before making disaster relief donations by visiting Give.org. The BBB cautions against clicking on links in unsolicited emails or texts that purport to be from relief organizations.
Price Gouging Remains a Concern
With Alabama Governor Kay Ivey’s declaration of a state of emergency for 40 counties ahead of Hurricane Isaias, the state’s price gouging law remains in effect until October 14. The law prohibits businesses from raising prices more than 25 percent above the average price in the past month, unless justified by increased costs. Violators can face fines up to $1,000 for each offense and can be barred from doing business in the state for willful, repeated violations.
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall encouraged citizens to report instances of price gouging—including for emergency supplies and repair services—via the Attorney General’s consumer complaint page or by calling 1-800-392-5658.
Reporting Suspicious Activity and Scams
The BBB asks residents who encounter scams or fraudulent repair contractors during the hurricane isaias recovery to report them to local law enforcement and to the BBB Scam Tracker. Taking these steps can help protect others from falling victim to similar post hurricane repair scams and storm repair scams.
Source: alreporter.com.
