Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott is warning the victims of recent wildfires to beware of possible scam artists offering to rebuild or repair their properties.
Since late last month, wildfires have killed at least three people, destroyed more than 200 homes and scorched more than 254,000 acres in Texas, Abbott said.
Abbott urges fire-damaged Texans to get more than one estimate, ask the Better Business Bureau for a contractor's complaint record, and get and check references from previous customers.
He also urges potential customers to get a salesperson's license plate number, deal with local firms where possible, and get and keep all agreements and guarantees in writing.
Abbott also urges customers not to sign any contract with blank paces, to ask for proof of insurance and to never pay 100 percent of the price up front.
He says customers also should ask whether the contractor will place a lien, security interest or mortgage on their properties.
"Sadly, scam artists take advantage of tragedies such as these, seeking to cheat victims who are trying to rebuild their lives,” Abbott said.
"I urge Texans who have suffered damage from these wildfires to be careful when deciding whom to hire to repair their damaged property. If they encounter any fraud or deception, they should report it to my office. I will not stand for dishonest businesses that prey on people who have already suffered because of these fires."
Complaints may be filed by calling the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline at (800) 252-8011 or online.
