06/15/2026
Iowa Insurance Division’s Fraud Bureau will be traveling around Union County tomorrow to answer any questions about possible scams involving severe weather cleanup.
Iowa Department of Insurance and Financial Services
We are here to help you recover and protect you from scams!
As you begin the cleanup and rebuilding process, the Iowa Insurance Division and our Fraud Bureau want to ensure you have the resources you need—and know how to spot the scammers that often follow in the wake of a storm.
Contact your insurance company directly: Your first call should always be to your insurance agent to report the damage.
Document the damage: Take photos and videos of your property before doing any temporary repairs or debris removal.
Download our Post-Disaster Claims Guide: Visit https://ow.ly/yzCL50Z2I7B for step-by-step guidance on navigating the insurance claims process.
BEWARE OF STORM CHASERS & SCAMS
Unfortunately, bad actors try to take advantage of communities during times of need. Protect your home and your wallet by looking out for these red flags:
Contractor Fraud: Be wary of unsolicited contractors knocking on your door. NEVER pay large sums of money up front, and don't let them pressure you into signing a contract on the spot. Always get multiple written estimates and verify their registration with the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing.
Unauthorized "Public Adjusters": A roofing or repair contractor cannot legally negotiate your insurance claim, appraise the damage for the insurance company, or promise to waive your deductible. Only deal directly with your insurance company or a licensed public adjuster.
Report Suspected Fraud:
If you feel you are being pressured by a "storm chaser," suspect contractor fraud, or think someone is illegally acting as an unlicensed public adjuster, we want to know about it!
Iowa Insurance Division Fraud Bureau: (877) 955-1212 or (515) 654-6600 File a complaint online: https://ow.ly/sEnV50Z2I7C
https://ow.ly/bE1j50Z2I7A
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