After the Storm

June 1 through November 30 is the official hurricane season! Unfortunately, many of the scams, frauds or other consumer protection problems don't appear until the immediate hazards of a hurricane disaster are over. This is why the city's Consumer Affairs Division warns consumers they should be aware of their rights and responsibilities before a hurricane hits to avoid becoming a victim of potential frauds.

Although many of the typical hurricane consumer scams are also common today, consumers are more likely to fall victim to scam artists who prey on the misfortune and emotional distress of disaster victims. It's impossible to catalog all the consumer scams that might develop if Jacksonville were hit by a hurricane, but some typical ones that normally follow a natural disaster include:

Price Gouging
In the wake of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, the Florida Legislature passed an anti-price gouging bill to prevent overcharging for essential goods, once the Governor has declared a state of emergency.

Home Repair
A frequent problem after a hurricane is fly-by-night unlicensed contractors who take deposits before starting work or final payments before finishing.

Car Repair
Many vehicles are damaged during a hurricane and will need repair. Consumers should understand their rights under the Florida Motor Vehicle Repair Act.

Landlord/Tenant Laws
Unscrupulous landlords might take advantage of a disaster-caused housing shortage and raise rents or try to force out existing tenants. Also, if landlords delay returning security deposits and last month's rent to consumers who must leave damaged apartments, this will create a hardship on those who are unexpectedly homeless.

Advance-Fee Loans
Following a hurricane, consumers who need a loan quickly to rebuild a home or business might be tempted by promises of guaranteed loans. Advance fee loan scams usually ask for up-front fees ranging from $100 to $3,000.

Employment
After Hurricane Andrew, job scams that charged people for information on nonexistent jobs were numerous.

Charitable Solicitation
Telephone callers and door-to-door solicitors asking for donations for bogus charities promising to help victims are common after any disaster.

Retail Stores
During hurricane season, June 1 through November 30, consumers often find themselves rushing out to stock up on needed supplies just in case a hurricane should hit Jacksonville.

For more information on the above possible hurricane scams contact the Consumer Affairs Division at 630-3467.

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