State warns storm survivors to vet contractors

JACKSON — Mississippi officials are urging homeowners affected by recent storms in the southern part of the state to carefully research contractors before agreeing to repair work, warning that fraud and unlicensed construction often follow severe weather.

The Mississippi State Board of Contractors said periods after storms typically produce an uptick in questionable offers from out-of-town operators and scammers targeting residents eager to rebuild. Stephanie Lee, who issued the board’s statement, said, “Storm recovery creates urgency, and unfortunately scammers count on that.”

Officials advised homeowners to verify that contractors are properly licensed, obtain referrals from trusted sources, get multiple written estimates and avoid paying the full cost of a project before work is completed. They said warning signs include contractors going door-to-door, demanding large upfront payments or pressuring residents to sign contracts immediately.

The board noted licensed contractors are subject to state oversight and regulatory standards. According to the Federal Trade Commission, complaints involving home repair scams routinely increase after natural disasters. Officials urged residents to insist on written contracts, use traceable payment methods and report suspicious activity or unlicensed work to the state board.

“Choosing a licensed contractor is one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make after a storm,” Lee said. This is a developing story and will be updated as more details emerge.