08/28/2026
Since the storms first hit our state, I’ve been on the ground with the families who took the worst of it. In just the last two weeks, my team and I have been to more than 40 communities across Indiana—I’ve personally visited over 20. Together we’ve driven more than 10,000 miles and knocked on more than 700 doors to see the devastation firsthand and put critical scam-prevention resources directly into homeowners’ hands.
I’ve walked into living rooms, garages, and basements—some with floors completely gutted. I’ve given hugs when that’s what people needed most. And I’ve made sure every family we met left with the same advice: Don’t leave your Hoosier common sense at the door when a contractor comes knocking.
• Be skeptical of anyone offering immediate cleanup or repairs without being vetted.
• Check licenses, bonding, and insurance.
• Look them up with the Better Business Bureau and get more than one written estimate.
• Insist on a written contract with start and completion dates.
• Never pay the full amount up front.
• Pay with a credit card. If the contractor takes your money and disappears, a credit card gives you a chance to dispute the charge. Cash, checks, wires, gift cards, and crypto usually don’t.
• FEMA does not charge application fees.
• Anyone promising to “cover your deductible” or claiming FEMA will pay for everything is waving a red flag.
If something feels off, report it at indianaconsumer.com or call 1-800-382-5516.
