Severe weather events are becoming more frequent and more destructive. Across the country, storms, wildfires, and floods are no longer rare news stories—they’re recurring realities that impact real homes, families, and communities.
The Aftermath of a Storm: Help or Harm?
In the wake of these disasters, help often arrives quickly. Local crews show up, neighbors lend a hand, and insurance adjusters begin their assessments. But among the genuine helpers, another group appears: fraudulent contractors who target vulnerable homeowners at their most overwhelmed moments. As a fully licensed and insured company operating in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa, we at All Craft encourage you to protect your investment by working only with credentialed professionals who stand behind their work.
National Insurance Crime Bureau Sounds the Alarm
A recent article in the Eau Claire Leader-Telegram, citing the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), highlights this growing concern. The NICB, a nonprofit focused on combating insurance fraud, warns homeowners to remain cautious in the days and weeks following a storm.
“It is crucial for area residents to be mindful that some contractors may promise help, ask for the assignment of benefits, and after being paid, disappear, never to be heard from again,” says Thomas Fabus, NICB Regional Director. These schemes not only result in financial loss—they delay essential repairs and add unnecessary stress to the recovery process.
Watch for These Red Flags
The NICB reports that fraudulent offers can range from simple tree removal to full-scale home reconstruction. Homeowners are advised to speak with their insurance provider before authorizing any repairs and to verify the licenses, insurance, and references of any contractor under consideration.
All Craft’s Commitment to Integrity
All Craft Exteriors General Manager Jewels DeCorsey echoes this advice. “It’s standard practice for our team to present our credentials at the first meeting. Whether on the phone or at their door, we listen to the homeowners’ concerns then work with them to navigate through the process. Honesty and integrity are core to how we operate—trust between contractor and client should be a given, not a gamble.”
To help protect yourself, the NICB recommends watching for these warning signs:
Local Help You Can Trust
All Craft sales representative Alex Slawson reminds homeowners that while fraudulent actors exist, many trustworthy companies remain. “We’re here to help people rebuild with peace of mind and confidence. We help explain the insurance claim process so that they can make informed decisions on how to proceed and with whom.” Interested homeowners can learn more about how we do this on the All Craft Exteriors Website.
Take Your Time—And Choose Wisely
The takeaway? After a storm, take your time. Ask questions. And partner with licensed, local professionals who will be there long after the news crews have moved on.
References:
All Craft Exteriors Storm Page – https://allcraftexteriors.com/hail-hits-eau-claire/
Eau Claire Leader Telegram – Search results for ‘nicb’ | leadertelegram.com
NICB – Contractor Fraud Awareness Week | National Insurance Crime Bureau
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