Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued a consumer alert warning residents to be cautious of scams targeting flood victims following recent devastating storms.
“There are no words for how wrong it is that morally bankrupt people are trying to take advantage of Texans by using this tragedy to scam them,” Paxton said. “Anyone engaging in these scams will face the full force of the law, and I will not rest until they are brought to justice.”
Paxton urged Texans affected by flooding to be wary of anyone seeking money for rebuilding or repair work, especially contractors from outside the area.
Flood victims are advised not to rush into signing contracts, to request references, and to check with the Better Business Bureau to ensure businesses are trustworthy.
Under state law, vendors are prohibited from charging exorbitant prices for necessities once the governor issues a disaster declaration.
Gov. Greg Abbott has declared a state of disaster in 21 counties, including Bandera, Bexar, Burnet, Caldwell, Comal, Gillespie, Kendall, Kerr, Llano, Mason, Travis, and Williamson.
Texans who suspect they have been scammed or encountered price gouging can call the Attorney General’s toll-free complaint line at 1-800-621-0508 or file a complaint online at the Office of the Attorney General’s website.
For tips on spotting disaster scams, visit the Attorney General’s website.
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