Avoiding contractor scams after a hurricane in Miami

Verify the contractor's license with the Florida DBPR and Miami-Dade County before anything else, confirm a local physical address, and get the full scope and price in writing. Be wary of door-to-door solicitation, out-of-area operators who will not be here for the warranty, demands for large cash deposits, and pressure to sign immediately. For insurance-related repairs, talk to your insurer directly and read anything before signing — especially any document that assigns your claim rights or offers to waive your deductible.

A large deposit demanded before any work or materials — particularly in cash — is one of the most common features of post-storm fraud. Legitimate contractors do take reasonable deposits, but the money should be tied to a written scope and a payment schedule, with meaningful amounts due as work is completed. Be especially cautious if a contractor cannot provide a license number, a local address, and a written contract before asking for money.

Be very careful, and do not sign anything transferring your insurance claim rights without reading it in full or having someone qualified review it. Florida has repeatedly changed the rules around assignment of benefits, so what was common a few years ago may no longer apply. Talk to your insurer directly, understand your own hurricane deductible, and treat any offer to 'handle your claim' or waive your deductible as a reason to slow down. This is general information, not legal advice.