Upper Arlington homeowners hiring contractors and filing insurance claims after the Aug. 11 storm should watch for scammers posing as repair crews, utility workers and insurance adjusters, the city warned in a storm response alert posted Aug. 12.

The warning comes as residents deal with widespread tree damage, downed power lines and property destruction from Tuesday's severe weather, which generated roughly 225 calls for service to Upper Arlington police and fire crews and dropped trees on at least 10 homes along Wellesley Drive.

Contractor fraud

The city's top advice: don't hire anyone who knocks on your door uninvited right after a storm. Instead, take their information and verify them independently.

Residents should check a contractor's credentials through the Ohio Department of Commerce or the Better Business Bureau, get more than one written estimate and be wary of quotes far below others. The standard deposit is one-third to one-half the total cost, with the balance due after the work is finished. Never pay in cash, the city said, because a credit card gives homeowners a way to dispute charges. And don't authorize a contractor to deal directly with your insurance company.

One important caveat: Ohio does not require residential general contractors to hold a state license, according to the Ohio Department of Commerce. That makes BBB checks and asking for a city door-to-door solicitation permit especially important for tree removal and roof repair hires.

Upper Arlington requires anyone selling services door-to-door to carry a city permit. Residents can ask to see it.

Fake utility workers and insurance scams

Anyone claiming to represent a utility company should show identification before entering your property. Residents can confirm a visit is legitimate by calling their utility provider at the number on their bill. Legitimate utility companies do not collect payment for emergency repairs on-site, the city noted.

For insurance, the city advised residents not to share policy numbers or personal information with anyone who contacts them first. Instead, call your insurance agent directly using the number on your policy documents.

State AG echoes the warning

Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson issued a statewide consumer alert the same day. "They don't need fraudsters trying to capitalize on their misfortune," Wilson said in an Aug. 12 statement. "Those who do will be held accountable."

Residents who encounter suspicious activity can report it to the UA Police non-emergency line at 614-459-2800 or file a complaint with the Ohio Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section at OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or by calling 800-282-0515.

Curbside chipping starts Monday

Separately, city crews will make one pass through Upper Arlington beginning Aug. 17 to chip or remove storm-related tree limbs. Residents must have branches at the curb, without blocking sidewalks or the street, by Monday morning. General yard waste such as lawn clippings and landscaping trimmings will not be collected during this pass. The Ohio Mulch facility on Roberts Road is not accepting residential storm debris until further notice.