Beware of the 'Disaster Chasers'! After the recent severe storms, residents are being warned about the potential dangers lurking in the aftermath. It's a sad reality that amidst the chaos, there are individuals who see an opportunity to exploit vulnerable homeowners.
Hail the size of golf balls has caused widespread damage across Queensland, leading to a surge in insurance claims. With the clean-up underway, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is urging residents to be vigilant.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some individuals, known as 'disaster chasers', offer quick fixes and promise easy solutions. They target homeowners, often the elderly or those in vulnerable situations, and present themselves as saviors. But their intentions are far from noble.
Liam Walter, the ICA's director for mitigation and extreme weather response, sheds light on their tactics. These individuals pressure homeowners into signing contracts for future repair work, sometimes even promising that the insurer will cover the costs. However, this can leave homeowners liable for unexpected fees and inflated bills.
Mr. Walter warns, "They can leave families and vulnerable Australians in a worse situation, with hefty bills and homes still in need of repairs."
So, how do these 'disaster chasers' operate? Julie Maron, a senior lawyer with Legal Aid Queensland, has witnessed their tactics firsthand. She shares a chilling account of how they approach unsuspecting homeowners.
"They'll go door-to-door, charming their way into people's trust and convincing them to sign contracts. It's a manipulative strategy that has gone horribly wrong for many."
Ms. Maron also highlights their use of social media and posters in affected areas to advertise their services. She advises that homeowners should be cautious of any digital signatures or contracts without a clear explanation of fees and services.
But this is the part most people miss... These companies often manage insurance claims and then engage in the repairs themselves, creating a conflict of interest. They pressure homeowners to accept cash settlements from their insurers, charging exorbitant fees for services that should be covered by insurance.
"They're taking advantage of people's limited insurance payouts, charging huge sums for services that are often unnecessary or can be done for free. It's a scam that leaves homeowners out of pocket and still in need of repairs," Ms. Maron warns.
So, what can homeowners look out for? Angelo Lambrinos, chief executive and commissioner of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC), offers some crucial advice.
"Always ask for their license. If they can't provide it, show them the door."
Mr. Lambrinos suggests checking the QBCC license register to verify the contractor's record and qualifications. Additionally, the Office of Fair Trading advises checking the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) to ensure the company has an Australian Business Number (ABN).
The ICA emphasizes that insurers will not send tradespeople or builders without notifying the homeowner and providing details. It's important to speak to your insurer before agreeing to any repairs to ensure coverage.
If you've already fallen victim to these 'disaster chasers', remember that customers have extra rights when salespeople or traders come unannounced. The Office of Fair Trading grants a 10-day cooling-off period for contracts over $100, during which the contract can be canceled in writing at any time.
So, stay vigilant, Queensland! Don't let these 'disaster chasers' take advantage of your trust. If in doubt, reach out to your insurer and seek professional advice.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Have you or someone you know encountered similar situations? Share your experiences and let's raise awareness to protect our communities!
