BBB Tip: Recovering from the freeze while avoiding unethical contractors and utility impostors

Over the past few days, plummeting temperatures and wintry weather mixtures have struck communities across Texas with many residents experiencing power outages, ruptured water lines, hail damage, fallen tree limbs, or other issues due to below-freezing temperatures. As home and business owners begin to thaw out in the coming days, many will discover a variety of problems resulting from the sudden cold snap. While some homeowners can easily handle cleanup and repair efforts, others will likely require the help of a professional. Additionally, other residents may begin to piece together facts and receipts to learn they interacted with an impersonated utility company that demanded immediate payment or a fraudulent online seller advertising winter weather and emergency products. Related Stories After significant weather events that are likely to result in property damage, Better Business Bureau typically receives an increase in reports of unethical contractors operating across affected regions. Commonly referred to as ‘storm chasers,’ many businesses offering services to residents negatively impacted by severe weather are well-respected and legitimate. However, among these groups are those who would take advantage of a homeowner in need rather than provide any meaningful service. Some common issues reported to BBB in these types of situations...