Beware Of Storm Repair Scams Lurking In South Dakota

If going a couple of rounds with Mother Nature wasn't nightmare enough, now you have to worry about another one, and this nightmare doesn't involve thunder, lightning, or baseball-sized hail.

This nightmare is originating from severe weather scammers!

After many South Dakotans spend hours cleaning up fallen trees, replacing damaged roofs, or picking up lawn furniture that somehow ended up three blocks away, con artists often move in looking to cash in on your bad luck.

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Unfortunately, post-storm scams have become increasingly common not only across South Dakota but throughout the country. These scammers know that people dealing with storm damage are stressed, overwhelmed, and eager to get repairs started as quickly as possible. That's exactly what they're counting on.

As Jessie Schmidt, Vice President of the Better Business Bureau of South Dakota, told Dakota News Now, "To be victimized on top of it when they're already in a really sad spot, it does seem like it adds an element of making it even more disdainful."

One of the biggest concerns is door-to-door contractors who suddenly appear after severe weather rolls through town. They often promise fast, inexpensive repairs and pressure homeowners to sign contracts immediately. While some contractors are completely legitimate, others are simply looking to take your money and disappear faster than a South Dakota thunderstorm changes direction.

The Better Business Bureau and the South Dakota Attorney General's Office encourage residents to slow down before signing anything. Contact your insurance company first, verify that any contractor is properly licensed and insured, and get multiple estimates before making a decision.

Experts also recommend avoiding contractors who demand full payment upfront or ask you to sign over your insurance check. If repairs involve areas you can't easily inspect, like your roof or attic, ask for photos documenting the damage before approving the work. And don't forget to request lien waivers once work is completed to help protect yourself financially.

Storm scams don't stop with fake contractors, either.

Scammers also know that we South Dakotans are generous people who love helping neighbors during difficult times. Fake charities and fraudulent relief organizations often pop up after major storms, hoping you'll donate without checking their credentials.

Before opening your wallet, take a few extra minutes to research the organization. Confirm it's a legitimate charity through trusted sources like the Better Business Bureau or other reputable watchdogs. The last thing anyone wants is to unknowingly help finance a scammer's next fishing boat instead of helping a family rebuild their home.

Most importantly, don't let storm clouds cloud your judgment. Do your homework, ask questions, and never let anyone pressure you into making a quick decision.

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Remember, if you believe you've been targeted by a scam, or something just doesn't feel right, report it immediately to the South Dakota Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division or the Better Business Bureau.