Homeowners urged to watch for flood scams
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Following severe flooding in areas of downstate and Southern Illinois, Attorney General Lisa Madigan is warning residents in impacted areas to be on alert for home repair con artists looking to exploit homeowners and local businesses that need repairs due to flood-related damage.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Madigan cautioned Illinois residents that scammers may quickly move into communities hit hard by flooding to take advantage of people with damage to their homes or businesses. </span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">General contractors are not required by state law to be licensed; however, municipalities may require permits. </span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Madigan said that homeowners should check with their local governments for more information about permits or other local requirements.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Madigan encouraged local residents and business owners to call local law enforcement agencies and her office’s Consumer Fraud Hotline at 1-800-386-5438 to report any suspicious activity.</span></p>