Legislation to protect homeowners from fly-by-night scam artists who prey on unsuspecting and vulnerable victims after damage occurs from severe weather is being crafted by state Reps. Dennis Murray (D-Sandusky) and Matt Patten (D-Strongsville).  Oftentimes these scam artists are out-of-state contractors that go from town to town approaching homeowners following catastrophic weather.  Once they secure a deposit from a homeowner for repair work, they flee without completing the job.

The legislation seeks to establish consumer protections in home improvement contracts by requiring them to be in writing and detail the identity of the contractors.  It would also limit the amount of money a homeowner will have to supply as a down payment for work, and require contractors to maintain a minimal level of insurance.  The measure, if enacted would be enforced using existing remedies through the Consumer Sales Practices Act.

Making the situation even more confusing for consumers is the fact that many storm chasers often try to operate under the names of local established contractors.  "This bill protects not only homeowners but it also protects local contractors from having their reputations ruined by these fly-by-night operators," Rep. Patton said.  "It ensures they keep both their good name and their Better Business Bureau score intact.  In addition, this legislation reassures consumers that local contractors can be trusted to perform honest and quality work."

Storm chasers have become so prevalent that the Ohio Department of Insurance now sends members of their Fraud and Enforcement Division door-to-door in towns after severe weather strikes to try to warn residents about these unscrupulous contractors that may try to defraud them out of insurance proceeds or act as an unlicensed public insurance adjuster.

Similar legislation has been introduced in the Ohio General Assembly in the past, but was unseuccessful.