As Baltimore County residents start cleaning up after the latest storm, they're being warned to remain on guard against scams capitalizing on the aftermath. These scams often manifest as unsolicited repair services, which could leave homeowners with shoddy work or empty wallets. To preempt these fraudulent practices, the Baltimore County Police Department has issued a warning that includes a series of steps that residents can take to protect themselves.
Among the key guidelines, homeowners are warned to be cautious of door-to-door solicitors, a method not typically employed by legitimate contractors. Sharing the recommendations, the Police Department urged residents, particularly those eager to address the damages quickly, to be skeptical of contractors who promise that repairs will be covered by insurance, especially if they're interested in seeing insurance policies or suggest waiving deductibles.
In the advisory, made available online, the police further advocate for due diligence, advising community members to consult with their insurance companies to gain clarity on covered damages before reaching out to repair services. Additionally, they underscore the importance of collecting multiple quotes, verifying licenses, and insisting on written contracts while cautioning against sharing sensitive personal information with unknown contractors.
