Contractor network in London formulated to thwart ‘fly-by-night’ scammers

LONDON, Ky. (FOX 56) — London Mayor Randall Weddle and Attorney General Russell Coleman announced on Wednesday that they created a program to prevent fly-by-night home improvement contractors from preying on storm victims.

“Following natural disasters, consumers may encounter bad actors or dishonest business practices through price gouging, charity scams, loan scams, and contracting scams,” Weddle said. “Consumers should be aware of these scams and report them to the Attorney General’s Office of Consumer Protection.”

The Emergency Contractor Registration Program (ECRP) requires any contractor operating in city limits to register with local government officials before doing business in areas impacted by storm damage.

Mayor Weddle announced on social media on Wednesday, May 18, that the attorney general’s Disaster Fraud Task Force had been activated to catch those who may be trying to commit home improvement scams.

How do you know which contractors are registered?

According to Mayor Weddle, registered contractors would be issued placards that must be displayed on their job sites.

How do contractors register with the city?

City leaders said ECRP forms are available at the office of the city of London building inspector (606-862-8401) or the office of the city clerk (606-864-4169), both located at 501 South Main Street. Registration is free.

Weddle wrote that Attorney General Coleman’s Consumer Protection Division had tips consumers may want to know regarding “fly-by-night contractors”:

• Take time to research contractors or repair companies and get secondary opinions. London residents were encouraged to search for contractors via the Better Business Bureau website, get referrals from friends and family, or visit the city building inspector’s office, as they are reportedly responsible for registering or licensing contract work.
• Resist pressure tactics and don’t accept work at a “special discount” on the spot.
• Never pay in advance or up front for repair work.
• Don’t sign insurance checks over to a contractor. Be sure to get an invoice from your contractor and pay them directly, preferably with a credit card, so that charges may be disputed, if necessary. Review contracts carefully, and do not sign documents that give a contractor rights to your insurance claims.

Officials in London said to report a scam, fill out this form. To report price-gouging, click here.