Tragic flooding brings the potential of scam artists ripping off families in time of need

Within the first week of flood cleanup, families in Vernon County have already had to deal with fake FEMA agents.

Disasters like these usually bring out shady construction workers and contractors, as well.

La Crosse County Builders Association’s Tena Bailey said door-to-door workers should be investigated fully.

“Just be careful for those fly-by-night companies,” Bailey said. “Our contractors who are here locally are very busy right now and may not be searching for work.”

Bailey added that you should always ask for their state license number, as well as any references they have.

“Be careful for big money down,” Bailey added. “A lot of our local guys are not going to ask for a whole lot so you want to get somebody that’s going to be here for awhile.”