Allstate Reminds: Be Aware of Contractor Fraud Following Hurricane Irene

Important hurricane rebuilding Information

News provided by

Allstate

Aug 31, 2011, 11:41 ET

NORTHBROOK, Ill., Aug. 31, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Allstate Insurance (NYSE: ALL) reminds homeowners affected by Hurricane Irene to be on the lookout for potentially fraudulent contractors as they begin the repair and rebuilding process.

A good, trustworthy contractor can be a key partner in the rebuilding process. However, fraudulent contractors may take advantage of people who have recently experienced a catastrophic event.

Nine Tips to Avoid Getting Scammed:

  1. Take your time in choosing a contractor to repair your home.
  2. Get estimates from several licensed, bonded contractors.
  3. Check their credentials with your local Better Business Bureau or Home Builders Association.
  4. Inspect contractors' licenses and proof of liability insurance.
  5. Avoid paying money up-front. Some reputable contractors will require partial, up-front payment, but these pre-work payments shouldn't exceed the cost of materials or 20 percent of the total estimate.  
  6. Follow local building codes and inspection procedures.
  7. If anyone performs unauthorized work on your house or property and demands payment, consider contacting local authorities.
  8. Don't sign over an insurance settlement check to the contractor.
  9. Immediately report any suspicious behavior to your local police, sheriff's department or your state's Department of Insurance.

Allstate policyholders who have damage as a result of Hurricane Irene can file a claim by contacting their agent, calling 1-800-54-STORM (1-800-547-8676), visiting a Mobile Claims Center or logging onto Allstate.com.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

SOURCE Allstate

WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM?

icon3
440k+
Newsrooms &
Influencers
icon1
9k+
Digital Media
Outlets
icon2
270k+
Journalists
Opted In
GET STARTED