Homeowner guide
Scams after hail, storms and wildfires
General info only. Check with a licensed pro and your local building department.
After a disaster, unlicensed contractors and scammers show up fast. Here is what the FTC says to watch for.
Also see contractor red flags and hail claims.
What the sources say
| Topic | What the source says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Signs of a scam | The FTC lists: claiming no license is needed, a discount only if you sign right away, asking you to sign over your insurance check, asking for everything up front, and asking you to sign a blank contract. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
| Payment | Pay by credit card or check — never by wire transfer, gift card, payment app, cryptocurrency or cash. Scammers want these because the money is almost impossible to get back. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
| Insurance check | Don't rely on a contractor to say what is covered, and never sign your insurance check over to one. The FTC suggests arranging a Certificate of Completion with your bank so it pays each stage after you approve it. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
| FEMA | FEMA does not charge application fees. Anyone who wants money to help you qualify for FEMA funds is running a scam. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
| Final payment | Never make the final payment until the work is done and you are satisfied. Get invoices and receipts. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
| Colorado roofing rights | Colorado roofing contracts must include a 72-hour cancel right if your insurer denies the claim. | Source page checked 2026-11-02 |
Checked 2026-11-02. General information, not legal advice. Rules change — confirm with the source. Report an error.