NICB Warns of Increased Contractor Fraud Risk in Texas After Severe Flooding
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) has issued a warning to residents and business owners in Texas about the rising risk of contractor fraud following recent severe flooding. Dishonest contractors are reportedly using aggressive sales tactics, offering quick repairs, and pressuring victims into signing contracts or surrendering insurance benefits. Some may demand large upfront payments or encourage exaggerated damage claims. NICB advises homeowners to contact their insurers first after a disaster, carefully review all documents before signing, and verify the legitimacy of any contractor. The organization also provides a free downloadable checklist for evaluating contractors. Consumers are urged not to let unscrupulous individuals interpret insurance policies on their behalf or discourage communication with their carrier. The NICB emphasizes that legitimate insurers will never ask policyholders to pay deductibles upfront over the phone and encourages reporting suspicious activity immediately.
