Also: Use licensed and insured contractors for storm repair work
Pinellas County Consumer Protection is advising citizens to be wary of solicitations for charitable contributions on behalf of Hurricane Ian victims in Florida, or elsewhere.
All charities soliciting within Florida – excluding religious, educational, political and government entities – are required to register and file financial information with Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. To check whether a charitable organization is properly registered, visit Check-A-Charity, a resource that provides the information reported to the department.
Here are additional recommendations from Consumer Protection:
- Do not judge an organization based solely on its name. Many organizations have names that sound like those of reputable organizations but may be fraudulent.
- Ask for a copy of the charity’s financial report to determine how much of your contribution is going toward the cause and how much funds administrative and fundraising costs.
- Beware of pressure tactics to give immediately. Don’t let emotional appeals or photos persuade you into giving. Make sure the solicitation is legitimate.
- Some charitable groups employ paid solicitors, in which case, not all of your donation will go to the charitable cause. Check to see if this is the case.
- Ask if donations are tax deductible.
- Never give cash. Contribute by using a secure payment method sent to a verified organization.
- For more information on how to protect yourself after a storm, visit Pinellas County Post-Disaster Consumer Tips. To report suspected fraud, call (727) 464-6200.
Tips for storm damage repairs
Some people have damage from Hurricane Ian. Pinellas County Consumer Protection reminds citizens to be cautious when hiring someone to make repairs. Avoid becoming a victim of a home improvement scam by recognizing the warning signs:
- Watch out for “fly-by-night” contractors who take deposits and do little or no work. Avoid dealing with anyone soliciting work door-to-door; take the opportunity to check them out first.
- Be wary of contractors who ask for advance payment in full. Pay upon completion or as the work progresses.
- Beware of any contractor who tells you that extensive or structural repairs do not require a permit. The contractor should pull the required building permits, not the homeowner.
Keep the following tips in mind to ensure that your repairs are completed satisfactory:
- Deal only with licensed and insured contractors. Verify that the license is current and active by contacting the Pinellas County Construction Licensing Board at (727) 582-3100 or www.pcclb.com.
- Be sure that you have a written contract that details the work to be completed. Also, retain proof of payment for the work in case you need it later.
- Require the contractor to supply a final affidavit indicating that all subcontractors and suppliers used on the job are paid in full.
- Ensure that the contractor has had the work inspected by the building department before you make final payment.
To check the complaint history of a business or if you need assistance with a consumer problem, contact Consumer Protection at 727-464-6200 or visit us at www.pinellascounty.org/consumer.