When you see damage in your home or fear there may be damage, you’re often preoccupied with the desire to fix the problem quickly. In the rush to get things done, you may not properly vet your options. Scammers prey on this, and instead of ensuring that you go through the right protocols and paperwork, they deliver a lot of promises. One of these promises is that they can work directly with your insurance carrier after you sign an innocent-looking piece of paper; it’s not a contract, it’s just “their policy.” Sounds convenient. Sounds too good to be true… because it is.
You just became a victim of an assignment of benefits scam.
With this piece of paper, you grant this third party the authority to dictate the scope and price of services without keeping you in the loop. They receive control of the insurance policy and can use it to sue your insurance carrier—and you may not even know when it happens. Should your insurance company reject paying for the work, you are responsible for the exorbitant costs — all because it felt easier and more convenient to sign a piece of paper than go through the more arduous process of obtaining permits and signing professional contracts.
Whenever you need home or building repairs, it is important to follow the right steps to protect yourself and your insurance coverage. Do your due diligence and make sure you have a company you can trust to assess and fix the damage.
How can you protect yourself?
- Review your insurance policy and understand what coverage you have for your home.
- Once you suspect damage to your home, it is crucial to take steps to determine where the damage is and to contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Make a point to take pictures of all damage you find.
- Research businesses before you work with them. Do they have reviews? Do you know anyone who has used them in the past?
- If provided with any paperwork to sign, read thoroughly and look for any verbiage stipulating cancellation fees and what power it grants a third party.
Scammers tend to target homeowners in areas that are known for having damage due to storms and hurricanes. With summer storms and hurricane season in full swing, you need to be prepared for someone presenting themselves as a solution to your problems when, if fact, they will really only lead to more headaches. Know your rights and take the time to make sure you put your home in the hands of the best contractors for your needs.
When you have home damage, you need a name you can trust. Contact Paul Davis. We have a history of experience and customer satisfaction you can count on, and we’re here for you. After all, This is No Time for Second Best®.
