Tips:
- Do your research. Make sure that the contractor is registered with the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. To conduct a contractor’s license search visit http://search.ccb.state.or.us/search/ or call 503-378-4621. FEMA does not certify contractors.
- Don’t wire money or pay with reloadable debit cards or gift cards. There is no legitimate reason to request those forms of payment.
- Don’t offer personal financial information over the phone. Know who you are dealing with and always ask for identification.
- Get any agreement in writing. Read the contract carefully, and if you don’t understand every word, take it to an expert. Never sign a contract with blank spaces to be filled in.