With the chaos, and the clean up of the debris from the severe storms that rolled through the city and county, authorities are now asking you to stay vigilant about scammers.

The door to door scammers may offer to help with clean-up and repair. Investigate before you hire.

Verify credentials – Ask for identification, proof of insurance, and proper licensing before hiring anyone.

Be cautious of door-to-door offers – Legitimate contractors typically don’t go door-to-door offering immediate services.

Get multiple estimates – Don’t feel pressured to make a decision on the spot. If you feel pressured, it is likely a scam. Compare quotes from reputable contractors.

Avoid upfront payments – Never pay in full before work begins. A small deposit may be reasonable, but the rest should come after work is completed to your satisfaction.

Check reviews and references – Look up the business online or contact Better Business Bureau to ensure they have a trustworthy history.

Trust your instincts – If something feels off, it probably is. Call 911 to report suspicious activity.

(Information, courtesy of Springfield Police Department)