Make sure the contract clearly states who will obtain the necessary permits. Consider having a lawyer review the contract if substantial costs are involved. Keep a copy of the signed contract. If the contractor provides any guarantees, they should be written into the contract clearly, stating what is guaranteed, who is responsible for the guarantee and how long the guarantee is valid. Pay only by check or a credit card. A reasonable down payment may be required to buy materials for some projects, but don't pay anything without a signed contract. If you suspect anyone -- an inspector, disaster survivor, or someone posing as one of these -- of fraudulent activities, call our toll-free Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, or your local law enforcement officials. If you're a survivor and haven't registered for assistance yet, please see #3 above, because registering for assistance is the first step. While we're discussing scams, we wanted to address a few rumors and potential scams that have recently been reported and mentioned on many social media channels: FEMA is providing $300 for food assistance - This is FALSE . FEMA is hiring for cleanup crews and inspectors - This is FALSE . FEMA is giving out cash cards to disaster survivors - This is FALSE . None of the rumors are true, so if you see or hear people discussing or passing these rumors along, please help us spread the message that they are false . For more information on these and other rumors