Merrillville, IN – As cleanup and recovery efforts continue following the June 11 tornado that caused widespread damage across Merrillville and portions of Lake County, local officials are warning residents to be on guard against contractor scams targeting storm victims.
According to the Merrillville Fire Department, unlicensed contractors and so-called “storm chasers” often move into disaster-affected communities after severe weather events, seeking to take advantage of homeowners facing costly repairs and insurance claims.
The warning comes as hundreds of structures across Merrillville continue to be assessed following the tornado, which damaged homes, businesses and public buildings throughout the area. Recovery crews remain active as residents work to repair damaged roofs, remove debris and restore normal operations.
Fire officials outlined several red flags residents should watch for when approached by contractors. These include unsolicited door-to-door offers, pressure to sign contracts immediately, demands for large upfront payments, promises to handle insurance claims on behalf of homeowners, and claims of FEMA approval or endorsement.
Officials emphasized that FEMA does not endorse individual contractors.
Before hiring anyone, residents are encouraged to contact the Town of Merrillville Planning and Building Department to verify licensing requirements. Town officials require contractors performing work within Merrillville to be licensed locally.
The Fire Department also recommends obtaining multiple written estimates, requesting proof of insurance and contractor licensing, checking company records through the Better Business Bureau, and contacting insurance providers before authorizing repairs.
Authorities advise residents not to sign contracts or provide payments until credentials have been verified.
Suspicious activity can be reported to the Merrillville Police Department’s non-emergency line, the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division, or the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline.
Officials say protecting residents from fraud is a critical part of the recovery process as Merrillville continues rebuilding after one of the area’s most significant tornado events in recent years.
