Attorney General Raoul warns Illinois residents about storm related repair scams

CHICAGO – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is warning residents to be alert for fraud after recent severe weather caused property damage in parts of the state. Raoul said scammers often target storm affected areas by offering quick repairs, free inspections, or posing as public adjusters to pressure homeowners and business owners into costly work. He advised residents to check contractor credentials, obtain written estimates from multiple contractors, avoid paying in full before work is completed, and confirm that contractors are properly licensed through state agencies. Raoul also reminded consumers that the Illinois Home Repair and Remodeling Act requires written contracts for work over 1,000 dollars and allows some contracts to be canceled within three business days if signed after door to door solicitation. Residents who suspect fraud are encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the Illinois Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Hotline.