GREENSBORO, N.C. - We've seen so much compassion and generosity after last week’s tornado. .
City workers, good Samaritans and volunteers came out to help neighbors and strangers in the communities in Greensboro and Rockingham County that were devastated by the storm.
But with any catastrophe, there are always people looking to take advantage of people in need.
With rain coming down across the Triad, those with significant home damage, or even just a hole in their roof, sought out protection and putting up tarps as soon as they could. But when it comes to the home repairs, experts say it's best not to jump the gun - and be patient in finding the best option.
Lawarren Farree considers himself lucky, that storm damage to his home and yard wasn't worse.
“I was the first person in this neighborhood to walk out, and it looked like a war zone,” he said.
Just looking down the streets, now mostly cleared from debris, he knows it certainly could have been.
“This is not going to happen overnight in Greensboro,” Farree said about the cleanup, “Greensboro, North Carolina is devastated.”
He still needs repairs to his roof, and for someone to clear limbs from the back, but he's taking his time.
“Take your time, because there are scammers out there,” he said, “They are walking in our neighborhoods, and they are leaving cards all over. I even had some leave stickers on my house! Don't put no stickers on my house.”
“If you do have somebody that just shows up at your door, we tell people to start doing the research, tell them hey, you know what while you are checking out my roof or you are giving me this estimate for my trees, I'm going to check you out [online],” said Lechelle Yates with the Better Business Bureau, “If the business balks — that's a red flag.”
The BBB says other red flags include: asking for money upfront, not getting a contract in writing, and not having a license for certain work, like for damages more than 30 thousand dollars.
“You really have to protect yourself. Get the three estimates, make sure that you were dealing with reputable companies, do your homework before,” Yates said.
Farree's already getting multiple estimates on the work, and he’s making sure he chooses wisely.
If you have concerns, you can always contact the BBB – just click here.
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