(Coppell, TX) – As people clean up from this week’s violent hail storms across the Lone Star State, AAA Texas reminds owners of damaged homes, cars and trucks to be cautious of scams.
AAA Texas encourages storm victims to avoid cleaning and repair scams by working with their insurance company directly and as soon as possible after storms hit. Victims of hail storms should also cover broken windows in vehicles or homes with tarps to prevent additional water damage until repairs can be completed.
So far more than 6,500 hail-related claims have been filed by AAA Texas policyholders. Those with auto insurance may be eligible for claims assistance with vehicle rentals if their vehicles are lost or damaged due to the storm, depending on the coverage within their policy.
“We’re working around the clock to help our policyholders get their lives back on track as quickly as possible,” said AAA Texas Vice President of Branch Operations Rhonda Wilson. “If you experienced hail damage and have not contacted your insurance adjuster be sure you do as soon as possible and before agreeing to any repairs.”
Before you hire a contractor or sign any documents AAA Texas recommends you:
Call your insurance adjuster first to get an estimate of the damage and probable repairs (AAA Texas policyholders should call 1-800-672-5246)
Be cautious of door-to-door offers, flyers or business cards left at your property
Ask your insurance claims adjuster, friends and family for contractor recommendations
Get more than one cost estimate for repair work
Never pay in cash
Get references and check into the business license, if applicable
Write down the contractor’s driver’s license and license plate number
Don’t sign a contract until you fully understand the terms
Never sign a contract with blanks
Make sure everything you ask for is clearly described in writing
Never let a contractor interpret the insurance policy language
If possible, have your contractor present when the insurance adjuster inspects damage
Pay a contractor only as work is completed
Keep receipts and records of payments
Make sure you have the names of subcontractors, materials supplied and confirmation that they have been paid
Don’t make the final payment until you are satisfied with the job
In addition, AAA Texas offers the AAA Home Improvement & Repair Network. AAA Texas members who own a home can be referred to a network of pre-screened contractors for home improvement projects and emergency repairs. Information about the service is available at www.aaa.com/homeimprovement. For more AAA Texas tips about roofing repairs log onto: www.aaa.com/roofrepairtips.
As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 56 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com. Motorists can map a route, identify gas prices, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance with the AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. Learn more at www.AAA.com/mobile.
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