Predators Follow the Storm Path — So Does Your Money
In the days leading up to a major hurricane, a second storm forms: a wave of scammers, fraudulent vendors, and high-pressure salespeople who know that fear and urgency make people act without thinking. Pre-storm scams cost coastal residents tens of millions of dollars every season — for products that don't work, services that don't show up, or outright theft. Knowing these scams before you encounter them is your best protection.
The 6 Most Common Pre-Storm Scams
Scam 1: Board-Up Crews That Take Deposits and Disappear
As a storm approaches, unlicensed crews drive through coastal neighborhoods offering to install shutters or board up windows — for a large upfront deposit. They take the money, may do poor or no work, and are unreachable afterward. Never pay more than 10–20% upfront for any pre-storm service. Verify contractor license with your state's contractor licensing board before paying anything. Pay by credit card, not cash — you have recourse for card disputes.
Scam 2: Price Gouging on Essential Supplies
Retailers and private sellers who charge artificially inflated prices for water, plywood, gas, generators, or hotel rooms during a declared state of emergency are committing price gouging — which is illegal in most states. Florida's price gouging law prohibits price increases of more than 10% for essential items during a declared state of emergency. Report suspected price gouging to your state Attorney General's office or call 1-866-9-NO-SCAM.
Keep receipts for essential purchases before and after a storm. Documentation of what you paid is your primary evidence if you're the victim of price gouging.
Scam 3: Fake Charity Solicitations
Within hours of a major hurricane landfall, fake charitable organizations appear online soliciting donations for 'disaster relief.' Only donate to established, vetted charities: American Red Cross, Team Rubicon, All Hands and Hearts, Direct Relief. Verify any charity at Charity Navigator (charitynavigator.org) before donating. Never donate via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
Scam 4: Door-to-Door 'Free Inspection' Scams
Unlicensed individuals canvass neighborhoods offering free home inspections for storm damage, then 'discover' damage that may not exist and submit inflated insurance claims. Never allow an uninvited inspector to access your property without verifying their license. If you need an inspection, hire a licensed public adjuster or contractor you find independently.
Scam 5: Fake Insurance Agent Calls
Scammers impersonating insurance company representatives call homeowners claiming you need to 'update your policy' immediately to be covered for the coming storm. Your insurance company will NEVER cold-call you to update coverage days before a storm. Call your insurance company directly at the number on your policy card — never the number a caller gives you.
Scam 6: Generator and Supply 'Pre-Order' Scams
Fake online stores offer generators and supplies at below-market prices with delivery promises just before the storm. They process your credit card and ship nothing. Only buy from authorized retailers (Home Depot, Lowe's, Amazon Verified Sellers, manufacturer websites). Be deeply suspicious of any price more than 20% below market rate.
Quick Reference: Red Flags vs. Legitimate Sources
| Red Flag | Legitimate Alternative |
|---|---|
| Unsolicited door-to-door contractor | Verify license at state contractor licensing board |
| Requests cash or wire transfer only | Pay by credit card for dispute protection |
| New charity with no history | Verify at charitynavigator.org before donating |
| Insurance agent calls to 'update policy' | Call your insurer directly at the policy card number |
| Generator price 20%+ below market | Buy from Home Depot, Lowe's, or manufacturer |
| Pressure to sign immediately | Slow down — legitimate vendors don't pressure you |
The best protection against pre-storm scams is to complete your preparations before the season — before the urgency and fear that scammers exploit. Visit our Prep Checklist Builder to get your household ready before June 1. Sign up for storm alerts to stay ahead of the storm.