BRIEF: Ventura County DA warns about scams targeting Thomas Fire victims

Dec. 11--Ventura County residents should be vigilant against scams designed to exploit those impacted by the Thomas Fire, according to a news release from District Attorney Gregory Totten on Monday.

The release advised people to be wary of insurance company representatives calling homeowners with the option to pay an increased premium over the phone to expand coverage options for smoke damage, or to pay their deductible in the same manner. Individuals should contact insurance companies directly regarding any such offers, and only accept offers from trusted sources, according to the release.

The release also cautioned against accepting unsolicited cleanup, repair or construction offers.

These scams are typically initiated door-to-door in impacted neighborhoods and can involve demands for upfront payment or deposits.

People are cautioned to only use licensed contractors (you can verify a license at http://www.cslb.ca.gov/). You should also call your insurance company to confirm if the contractor says work is covered by your insurance.

The release also advised to consider only using contractors with a local business location.

Kaytlyn Leslie: 805-781-7928, @kaytyleslie

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