Following fatal storms in southern and central Illinois Friday night, Attorney General Kwame Raoul warns residents to be on alert for scammers looking to exploit homeowners and business owners who may be in need of repairs from storm-related damage.

After severe storms and tornadoes resulted in several fatalities in Edwardsville, Illinois, and damaged communities throughout the state, Gov. JB Pritzker issued a state disaster proclamation for 28 counties and activated the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) to provide assistance in affected areas. Raoul cautioned residents that scammers often move quickly into communities to take advantage of people with damage to their homes or businesses. Raoul noted these “storm chasers” use the opportunity to pressure people into making quick and often expensive decisions about cleanup and construction work. 

Raoul said general contractors are not required by state law to be licensed, but municipalities may require permits or have other local requirements.

94.1 WGFA