After the Storm, Watch Out for Repair Scams

What Happened

The Arizona Attorney General recently warned residents about repair scams that can appear after monsoon storms and other severe weather.

Scammers and unlicensed contractors may approach homeowners while they are worried about roof damage, fallen trees, flooding, or other urgent repairs.

How the Scam Works

Someone may knock on your door, call you, or leave a flyer promising immediate repairs.

They may claim they noticed damage to your home or say they are already working in your neighborhood. Then they pressure you to make a quick decision or pay a large amount upfront.

Once paid, they may disappear, perform poor-quality work, or create additional damage.

Warning Signs

Be careful if someone:

• Arrives unexpectedly after a storm.

• Pressures you to decide immediately.

• Wants full payment before work begins.

• Refuses to provide a written estimate or contract.

• Cannot show a valid Arizona contractor’s license.

• Demands payment by gift card or cryptocurrency.

• Claims your insurance company sent them when you have not confirmed it.

What You Should Do

Before hiring anyone:

1. Contact your insurance company first.

2. Ask trusted friends, relatives, or neighbors for referrals.

3. Get several written estimates.

4. Request a written contract describing the work, cost, and timeline.

5. Verify the contractor’s license through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors at roc.az.gov or call 602-542-1525.

6. Avoid paying the entire cost upfront.

7. Never pay someone who insists on gift cards or cryptocurrency.

If someone claims to represent an insurance company, utility, or government agency, contact that organization using a phone number you find independently.

Pete’s Bottom Line

Storm damage can make you feel that repairs must begin immediately. That urgency is exactly what dishonest contractors use against homeowners.

Stop. Take a breath. Check the contractor’s license, obtain written estimates, and talk with your insurance company before paying anyone.

A legitimate contractor will give you time to verify the facts.

Source

Arizona Attorney General’s Office
“Attorney General Mayes Warns Arizonans about Storm Related Repair Scams”
August 12, 2026
https://www.azag.gov/press-release/attorney-general-mayes-warns-arizonans-about-storm-related-repair-scams

Call to Action

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