Beware of Sandy Scams, Bernardsville Police Chief Says

Bernardsville Police Chief Kevin Valentine said he wanted to pass along warnings issued by the state for those in the area to beware of some scams that may be taking place related to continuing cleanup efforts after Hurricane Sandy.

Valentine said there have been no scams reported in Bernardsville at this time.

However, with so many different tree contractors from out of the area working now I thought it prudent to pass this information on," he said.

The information is from the state and Federal Office of Emergency Management.

The advisory issued by the state last week warned, "Disasters like Hurricane Sandy bring out the best in people – but not in all people. Too often disaster survivors are the targets of scam artists."

According to FEMA and the state, the the early days following a disaster, con men may pose as inspectors from FEMA or the Small Business Administration. Residents should be aware that FEMA and SBA staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications, as do some of the fradulent "inspectors."  

"As rebuilding gets under way, sham contractors may knock on your door, promising to begin work immediately, only to take your money and disappear," the advisory warned.

Before hiring a contractor, residents are advised to check with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs at 800-242-5846 to make sure the contractor is registered.

The state also offered to help with insurance claims.

"Insurance settlements are critical to recovery after a disaster and state officials are on hand to help survivors having problems getting a claim paid," the advisory said. The New Jersey Office of the Insurance Ombudsman  assists consumers with issues related to insurance availability and claims processing. You can contact the office by calling 800-446-7467 or by emailing ombudsman@dobi.state.nj.us.

Other resources available are: 

FEMA

FEMA disaster assistance registration and helpline: 800-621-FEMA (3362), TTY 800-462-7585

Apply online for assistance: DisasterAssistance.gov

Smartphone/tablet: m.FEMA.gov/Sandy

Find the nearest disaster recovery center: FEMA.gov/DRC or text “DRC” and your “zip code” to 43362 

In this area, the deadline for filing for

Small Business Administration

Customer service center: 800-659-2955, TTY 800-877-8339

Disaster assistance website: SBA.gov/DisasterAssistance

Online loan application: https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/