Better Business Bureau Warned of Storm Chaser Scams
Officials issued a warning to Western Washington residents regarding fraudulent contractors following recent wind damage.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Severe Weather
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The Better Business Bureau alerted Western Washington homeowners to be wary of opportunistic storm chasers soliciting repair work. These entities often target properties damaged by recent windstorms to pressure residents into making substantial upfront payments.
Why it matters
Unscrupulous contractors frequently target property owners during vulnerable post-storm periods to secure signatures on insurance checks or take large deposits for work that never occurs. These deceptive practices can lead to significant financial distress for households already dealing with property damage.
Consumers reported 106 contractor scam incidents over the past 12 months, resulting in $1.3 million in losses and $2 million in attempted losses. Individual victims typically lose between $10,000 and $40,000, though some cases exceed $100,000.
The players
Better Business Bureau
This private, non-profit organization focuses on advancing marketplace trust by monitoring business practices and providing consumer warnings.
The details
Contractors often proactively approach homeowners immediately following severe weather events, pushing for large advance payments or the immediate signing over of insurance settlement checks. Victims are urged to verify contractor credentials and work history before authorizing any repairs or providing funds.
Timeline
106 contractor scam reports were submitted to the BBB during the past 12 months.
Seasonal Patterns
This warning aligns with the BBB Scam Tracker contractor fraud reporting metrics that typically spike following regional severe weather events. It highlights an ongoing trend where property damage acts as a catalyst for organized financial exploitation of homeowners.
Homeowners should never pay for home repairs in full upfront or sign over insurance checks before a company has verified its license and proof of insurance. Residents are advised to research all potential contractors through official databases to confirm their reputation and previous project history.
The takeaway
Disaster recovery is stressful, but taking the time to independently vet a contractor can prevent the loss of tens of thousands of dollars. Always prioritize local, established businesses over individuals who show up unsolicited following a storm.
Further reading
For additional guidance on avoiding predatory repair services, visit the Severe Weather section of our site.
More information
Verify prospective companies using the Better Business Bureau contractor research tools before signing any repair agreements.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KOMO.
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Would you trust a contractor who approaches your home immediately after a major storm?
