How to avoid contractor scams amid Oklahoma’s severe weather season

The loss of property from storms can allow scammers to take advantage. The Better Business Bureau of Central Oklahoma offered some advice to protect people’s money. 

The BBB keeps track of vetted Oklahoma contractors. One expert said it’s important for people to take their time before agreeing to work with any business. 

Storms make communities vulnerable to scammers  

A natural disaster's damage to homes can create an unnatural storm of con artists. 

“Bad actors kind of come out of the woodwork, if you will,” said Casey Farmer, vice president of marketing at the Better Business Bureau of Central Oklahoma. “Unfortunately, storm season is the time that we see a lot of fly-by-night contractors into our state.”  

Farmer’s organization helps identify fraudulent businesses to warn consumers. 

“They’re using these really high-pressure sales tactics to get your attention,” Farmer said. 

Homeowners should use caution when offered repair services 

Farmer encouraged caution for homeowners who are approached by anyone with one-time offers with deadlines with their services, and their addresses often appear as a P.O. Box. Fraudulent contractors will also demand a lot of money upfront. 

“That is a big red flag. Be careful there,” Farmer said. “An honest, ethical, trustworthy contractor isn’t going to ask you to do that.” 

BBB’s database tracks trusted contractors  

The BBB has a database so people can search for businesses and learn about the company and its track record for services. 

“There are a lot of awesome roofers here in Oklahoma,” Farmers said. 

Farmer said it’s easy to fall victim to fraud because scammers prey on people’s emotions during vulnerable moments. 

“Our homes are personal to us, right? When that’s affected, it can be tough,” Farmer said. “It affects our everyday lives and how we run through the reality of life.” 

No one is alone with fraud issues 

Data from the Federal Trade Commission in 2023 showed Oklahomans reported nearly $59 million in fraud losses. 

“It happens to the best of us.” Farmer said. 

Reporting scams to the BBB or FTC helps warn others 

However, Farmer said those stories of mistakes can save communities from more harm. Reporting scams gives the BBB data to issues alerts and warnings. 

“With your story, you're able to hopefully warn other people. There’s no shame in that,” Farmer said. 

Get multiple estimates to help identify scams 

The Oklahoma Attorney General’s office said homeowners should get multiple estimates in writing from different contractors. That allows people to compare if an offer is too high or too low. 

For more information 

The BBB has a downtown OKC office people can call at 405-239-6081 or visit at 17 S Dewey Ave. Click here to search for credible contractors in Oklahoma.