Hurricane Prep: Contractor Fraud Tips

6 August 2026—The aftermath of a storm can be one of the most challenging times in a homeowner’s life. As families begin the recovery process, it’s important to stay vigilant against potential scams, like contractor fraud.

This hurricane season, the Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC) is partnering with the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) to discuss contractor fraud and how homeowners can protect themselves after a disaster.

According to LSLBC, contractor fraud is common after a major storm. Unethical individuals know that homeowners are often under stress and are eager to make repairs quickly. Some contractors take advantage of that urgency by pressuring homeowners into making rushed decisions that may not result in quality work or any work at all.

LSLBC explains that there are warning signs homeowners should watch out for before falling victim to the scam and important tips to consider when hiring a contractor after the storm.

Unsolicited Door-to-Door Offers

Some individuals may knock on neighborhood doors, claiming they are working in the area and have leftover materials available at a discounted rate. While this may sound appealing to a homeowner in need of repairs, LSLBC says this can be a major red flag.

LSLBC recommends homeowners verify that contractors are properly licensed through the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors before hiring anyone. They encourage homeowners to go to their website to search for the contractor’s license.

An important tip to remember is that performing contracting work without a license in Louisiana is illegal. LSLBC encourages homeowners who encounter an unlicensed contractor to report them to their agency.

Do Your Homework

LSLBC says it’s best to review one’s homeowner’s insurance policy to understand what damage may be covered before moving forward with repairs.

Taking time to read reviews, checking references, and confirming that the contractor carries appropriate insurance coverage can save homeowners a significant amount of time, money, and frustration later.

Get Everything in Writing

A written contract should clearly outline itemized material costs, the scope of work to be performed, estimated start and completion dates, payment terms, and the total project cost.

Most importantly, LSLBC says homeowners should read the entire contract carefully before signing it to understand all terms and conditions. If a homeowner has questions, LSLBC says to consult one’s insurance company, agent, or a trusted legal professional before proceeding.

Never Pay for Uncompleted Work

Paying in advance for unfinished construction can expose a homeowner to significant financial and legal risks. A good rule of thumb is to always ensure that the work agreed upon has been completed before making the final payment.

As Louisiana prepares for this hurricane season, remember protecting one’s home does not stop when the storm ends. Recovery brings its own challenges, and staying informed is one of the best ways to avoid becoming a victim of contractor fraud.

To learn more about contractor licensing, verifying a contractor’s credentials, or filing a complaint, visit the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors’ Website, at: https://lslbc.gov/