After a hurricane, scammers move fast, posing as contractors or FEMA agents to get your cash or your personal information. This guide shows the warning signs, how to pay for repairs safely, and what to do if you already paid a deposit or shared personal information.
How the scam works
A door-knock that moves faster than your insurance claim.
Hurricane-recovery scam warning signs, step by step
1Warning sign one: the storm-chaser contractor
Shows up before you called anyone, wants cash today, and can’t produce a license.
2Warning sign two: the fake FEMA agent
FEMA never charges a fee, for an application, an inspection, or anything else.
★Not sure if a contractor or a caller is real?
Call us, we’ll help you verify it, and check your accounts if your information was shared.
More red flags to watch for
- “Sign today for a discount” — Real quotes don’t expire in an hour
- “Sign your insurance check over to us” — Never do; pay the contractor yourself, in stages
- A “blank” contract to sign — Every line should be filled in before you sign anything
3 rules to remember
- Pay by credit card or check only — Never by wire, gift card, cryptocurrency, or cash
- Get it in writing, and check it twice — License number, start and finish dates, and a full written estimate
- Pay in stages, final payment last — Only after the work is done, and you’re satisfied
Already paid, or shared information? Act fast.
- Already paid a deposit? — Call your card company or bank right away to dispute the charge
- Signed over your insurance check? — Call your insurance company immediately and explain what happened
- Gave your Social Security number? — Visit IdentityTheft.gov for a step-by-step recovery plan
Recap: hurricane-recovery scams
- A door-knock contractor or FEMA call? Verify first
- FEMA never charges a fee, for anything
- Pay by credit card or check, in stages, never cash or wire
- Get a license number and a full written estimate
- Already paid or shared information? Dispute it, then report it
Printable quick guide
Frequently asked questions
Does FEMA ever charge a fee to help with a disaster claim?
No. FEMA never charges for inspections, disaster assistance, debris removal, grants, or help with applications or appeals, and never asks for your banking information. Anyone who says they work for FEMA but asks for money is a scammer.
How can I verify someone claiming to be from FEMA?
FEMA staff and contractors always carry an official photo ID badge with their name and photo, but scammers sometimes fake one. If you’re unsure, hang up and call the FEMA Helpline directly at 1-800-621-3362 rather than trusting the badge or the caller.
What are the warning signs of a storm-chaser contractor scam?
Showing up uninvited right after a storm, claiming no license is needed, offering a discount only if you sign immediately, asking you to sign over your insurance check or sign a blank contract, and demanding payment up front by wire, gift card, cryptocurrency, or cash.
What should I do if I already paid a scam contractor or shared personal information?
If you paid by credit card or check, contact your card company or bank right away to dispute the charge. If you signed over your insurance check, call your insurance company immediately. If you shared your Social Security number, visit IdentityTheft.gov for a recovery plan, then report the scam at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Related guides
- After the Storm: Powering Your Tech Back Up Safely
- Fake Tech-Support Websites and Search Ads
- AI Voice-Clone and Grandparent Scams
Source: How To Avoid Scams After Weather Emergencies and Natural Disasters (FTC)