Most contractors are ethical and honest. Yet unlicensed and dishonest operators try to exploit often-traumatized homeowners after storms.

The scams:

• Strangers appear after a storm, offering “affordable” repairs. They’re called storm chasers.

• Lowball bids like “special post-disaster deals” or “limited time offers.”

• Shoddy repairs, using substandard material.

• Inflating the claim. You may lose all coverage.

• Asking for large up-front payments — then disappearing while doing little or no work.

• Convincing you to sign over your claim. The contractor may make inflated repair claims behind your back.

• Hire local - Use reputable contractors. Avoid strangers who go door-to-door, especially after a storm. They may be unlicensed and dishonest.

• Get several bids - Multiple bids help protect you. .

• Licensed? - Ask to see a contractor’s licenses. Then confirm with the government licensing agency.

• Insured? - Require proof of liability and workers-compensation insurance.

• Signed contract - Get a signed contract before work begins. Don’t sign contracts with blanks.

• Avoid advance payment - Never pay a contractor in full before work begins. Normally 20 percent or less upfront is reasonable

• Repairs insured? - Make sure your insurer will cover repairs — before work starts. Have your insurance adjuster estimate both damage and repair costs.

• Coordinate with insurer - Ask your insurer inspect the damage and agree to the repairs before work starts.

• Most important of all, don’t commit insurance fraud and if you see it happening, report it.

• And finally, pass our information along to everyone you know.