Weather

Now that repairs have started at hundreds of flood-damaged homes and businesses, officials with the Shelby County Office of Preparedness have taken steps to help ensure contractors are legitimate. So far, almost 2,000 people have registered for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Many of those people will be hiring contractors to do repairs.

“Scam artists often prey on disaster survivors. That’s why we’re asking contractors to register their businesses with the Shelby County Office of Preparedness. Additionally, Shelby County Code Enforcement inspectors will be checking to make sure contractors have a valid Shelby County Business License,” said Bob Nations, Jr., Director of the Shelby County Office of Preparedness.

The free identification cards are being issued at the Shelby County Code Enforcement Office at 6465 Mullins Station Road from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week.

“Having an identification card can’t guarantee the quality of work. However, it will let people know the contractor has a valid business license and they will follow guidelines for doing repairs,” added Shelby County Mayor Mark H. Luttrell, Jr.

The Shelby County Office of Preparedness is asking contractors to finish their daily work at job sites by 8 p.m. This will be another indicator for flood survivors to know their contractors are following the work rules.

The Shelby County District Attorney General’s Office urges everyone who hires a contractor to be vigilant. "While countless Shelby County citizens work tirelessly to minimize flood damage, there are those who may view this as an opportunity to exploit vulnerable victims. Those who choose to turn flood victims into crime victims will be met with tough prosecution by the District Attorney's Office,” says Shelby County District Attorney Amy Weirich.