We all know how complex home repairs can be, and as monsoon storms move through Southern Nevada and wildfire risks grow in the north, homeowners are bracing for damage.  When disaster strikes, scammers often follow.

Las Vegas

With monsoon storms and wildfire threats affecting Nevada, homeowners are being cautioned about the risk of scams following severe weather events. Unlicensed contractors often target vulnerable residents, especially seniors, offering quick repairs that may not be legitimate. 

Experts from the Nevada State Contractors Board advise homeowners to handle minor repairs themselves when possible, but to hire only licensed and trustworthy professionals for larger jobs. Residents are urged to verify contractor licenses, avoid paying in full upfront, and obtain multiple estimates. Additional resources and safety tips are available through official state websites and local news outlets.

How to protect yourself from scams during severe weather events

Now we all know how complex home repairs can be and as monsoon storms move through southern Nevada and wildfire risks grow in the north homeowners are bracing for damage but when disaster strikes scammers often follow. Unlicensed contractors are known to target vulnerable residents especially our seniors. Good morning Las Vegas reporter Shakira Hawkins joins us live with what you need to know to protect both your home and your wallet. Good morning Shakira. Good morning Inesia that's exactly right so whether it's from flooding from monsoons or the threat of wildfire experts say homeowners in Nevada can take simple steps now to avoid big costs later but if the damage is too much to handle yourself it's important to hire someone who's licensed and trustworthy. So experts with the Nevada State Contractors Board say damage like roof leaks, clogged drains or even light smoke damage can quickly get worse if ignored. For small repairs like clearing debris, sealing windows or cleaning gutters most homeowners can handle those with basic tools but for the bigger jobs like fireproofing parts of your roof or reshaping the soil around your home you'll want to call in a licensed contractor and that's also when scams can happen so it's important to be careful. In the event there's wind or fire or a monsoon always take some precautions if you're looking to hire a contractor because maybe your home could have potentially been damaged. Don't allow somebody that might start soliciting you door to door try to rush you into anything take your time make sure you verify they have a contractor's license is the most important thing. Now he says it's he says to always pay in cash the Nevada State Board's Contractors Board recommends to get multiple estimates never pay in full upfront and verify licenses at nscb.nv.gov or by using their mobile app. We will also post a full list of safety tips links to check contractor licenses and details on upcoming homeowner workshops on our website at ktnv.com. For Good Morning Las Vegas I'm Shakira Hawkins.

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