After the storm: New law protects homeowners looking for repairs from contractors looking to scam



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Storms and scams sadly go hand-in-hand this time of the year. After the bad weather we've seen over the last week, officials are encouraging people to watch their wallets when repair crews come knocking!

In the wake of a storm, Diane Krueger with Carl Krueger Construction has a warning for homeowners looking to make repairs.

It's part of Act 24 -- also known as the "Storm Chaser Bill" that took effect in January.

"What it is, is to help protect homeowners from contractors who come in, typically from out-of-state, but it can be from local contractors as well," Krueger said.

They'll knock at your door and promise damage repairs will be covered by insurance.

"Then the homeowner finds out a couple of weeks later it`s not covered by insurance and now they are stuck with a bill," Krueger said.

Act 24 requires contractors to provide credentials when approaching potential customers.

Companies also have to make homeowner's state in writing whether the work will be billed to insurance.

"Every insurance policy is different so every level of coverage is different," Krueger said.

Krueger suggests making sure to document any weather-related damage with a camera.

Take pictures, and submit them with your claim.

That way, if it is covered, there's proof it's Mother Nature's fault.

"Go through an association like Milwaukee NARI. Look up flood and damage restoration contractors and they should be able to come out and document the proper forms and get it to your insurance company," Krueger said.

Krueger also encourages people to be wary of out-of-state contractors. They typically come to Wisconsin after a big storm.

They need to be licensed by the state to pull permits and work on your home.

Bad storms can bring out the best in people -- as strangers reach out to help others in need, but unfortunately, they can also bring out people who choose to take advantage of storm victims.

Some of the most common "after the storm" scams involve autos, home, yard repairs or cleaup.

The Better Business Bureau offers the following tips for homeowners who suffer storm damage:


    CLICK HERE to search for a Better Business Bureau accredited business.

    CLICK HERE to search for a contractor through Milwaukee NARI's website -- where you can search based on the services you're looking for.

    CLICK HERE to learn more about Carl Krueger Construction. Carl Krueger is available 24/7 for disaster response -- and that includes storm damage and tree removal.

    CLICK HERE to read Wisconsin's Act 24.