Natural disasters bring out both the best and worst in people.
The easiest way to avoid being scammed by disreputable contractors is to deal with local or area businesses. If you do not have first hand knowledge or a reference you trust, contact the Consumer Protection Division and the Better Business Bureau to obtain information on the business. If you think someone is deliberately gouging you on the price of an item or service, let the business know that neither you, your neighbors, nor your family will patronize the business in the future. Report it to the Consumer Protection Division. They may set up phony charities to collect money or fraudulently misrepresent themselves as working for a legitimate charity.