BBB shares tips for those rebuilding after storms

JACKSON, Tenn. — Cleanup and recovery is underway after recent storms.

The Better Business Bureau advises storm victims on what to do in the aftermath. One tip is to assess the damage and document it with photo or video evidence.

Toddnetta Trice, communications specialist with the BBB, says more.

“Do not make any permanent repairs until you get approval from your insurance company. Your insurer might not fully reimburse you for your permanent repairs without authorization,” said Trice.

Also, be wary of price gouging. This is when sellers spike up the prices of goods and services to an unreasonable rate.

“When we think about those counties that have been hit the hardest, they are very close. These counties, they help each other. They’re neighbors, so i would hope that there’s not any type of price gouging going on, but again, what you’re going to see is storm chasers. People coming in from different counties, different states even to try to offer help and services,” said Trice.

The Better Business Bureau urges victims not to make rash decisions and carefully deliberate their options when choosing contractors.

“We want to make sure that you’re doing your research. You can learn about storm chasers on the Better Business Bureau website. You can look up these businesses and look up individuals. So don’t even look up the business name, start looking for the individual that they introduced themselves as, so you can see what’s out there as far as reviews,” said Trice.

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