Beware Of Home Repair Scams, Sarasota Sheriff's Office Says: Hurricane Irma

SARASOTA, FL — The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office is reminding residents to be aware of unlicensed contractors and other service providers trying to take advantage of those who experienced property damaged during Hurricane Irma. (Subscribe to Sarasota Patch for all Hurricane Irma news.)

"When hiring an individual to repair damages, residents must verify their contractor is legitimate before allowing any work to be done on their property," Sheriff Knight said in a statement. "Unfortunately, service providers might target the elderly or other vulnerable people who aren’t knowledgeable of repair work and associated costs.”

Many residents are seeking services such as roof repair, tree removal or electrical maintenance in the aftermath of Irma. Unlicensed contractors and illegitimate handyman around Florida and from out of state might offer their services in an attempt to scam people and make money, the Sheriff's Office news release says.

Watch: What Kind Of Scams To Watch Out For After A Natural Disaster

See Also:

• Hurricane Irma - 12PM UPDATE, Tuesday - Airport Reopens, Storm Moves North, Millions Without Power
  
• Hurricane Irma: Keys Residents Allowed To Return; Millions In Florida And Georgia Still Without Power
  
• Sarasota Working To Restore Power, Water Service
  
• Hurricane Irma Florida: Sarasota Residents Feeling Overall Relief

FEMA representatives or contractors will not go to your home. If anyone calls you or shows up at your home saying they're FEMA representatives, they are trying to scam you. FEMA does "not endorse any commercial businesses, products or services," the agency's website says.

To check a Sarasota County license or report someone you suspect is acting as an unlicensed contractor or performing work without a permit, call 861-5214 or 861-5000 or visit www.scgov.net/contractors.

Photo: Sarasota County Sheriff's Office