TOPEKA — Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt cautions Kansans in storm-damaged areas to be careful about who they hire to help rebuild. Schmidt said that a storm often brings out the best in Kansans who pitch in to help storm victims. However, those storms also attract those who take advantage of victims in their time of need, he said. Home repair scams are common in natural disaster situations, he said. Homeowners should ask for recommendations and references from contractors and get at least three written estimates from different contractors, he said. Make sure the contractor meets all licensing and permitting requirements and get all contracts in writing, he said. Homeowners should be especially suspicious of contractors who come door-to-door, offer discounted “leftover” materials, drive unmarked vehicles or have temporary magnetic signs or quote prices unusually low compared to other estimates, he said. Additionally, all kansans should use caution when donating to charities raising money for storm victims, he said. Only donate to known, reputable charities. Verify the status of a charity by visiting www.kscharitycheck.org, or by calling (785) 296-4564.
Tuesday, May 31, 4 p.m.
