INDIANAPOLIS – With the recent severe weather Indiana experienced, Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance wants to warn Hoosiers to be on the lookout for contractors who may try to take advantage of storm victims.
Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance Executive Director of Claims Darrin Walton said, “Clients have been through a traumatic experience; suffering property loss from a weather event is difficult to deal with emotionally. Claim time is anxious and unknown. People are emotional and vulnerable. We hate to see those at their most vulnerable being taken advantage of.”
After severe weather that has left behind widespread damage, good and bad contractors will try to win your business. Be skeptical of those that sound too good to be true.
“You’re not under any pressure to choose someone right away,” said Jackie Jones, Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance sr. manager of property claims. “Be skeptical of anyone that might show up on your doorstep, wants you to sign a contract, pushes you, or makes you feel anxious about choosing them to do your repairs. If it doesn’t feel right, step back and take your time making this decision.”
Before selecting a contractor, do your research. Ask your family, friends, and neighbors who they’ve worked with in the past and if they would recommend that company. Your insurance claims adjuster will also have suggestions.
“We work with contractors with whom we have an established relationship and feel confident that they will treat our customers the same way we do,” said Walton. Though we do not recommend any company, we will refer you to those companies that have a long, positive history of serving our clients.”
Ask potential contractors for references or examples of their work, and ensure you have thoroughly vetted the company before signing a contract.
