The Better Business Bureau is urging home and business owners who suffered property damage and flooding issues from this weekend’s severe storms to research which companies they hire to help rebuild and repair damage.

According to the Better Business Bureau, disastrous events can attract out-of-town contractors and, while some of those businesses may be legitimate, con artists could be in the mix.

• Get the company’s complete name, address and phone number. Be skeptical of any vague answers, or no offers of contracts or anything information in writing. Beware of high pressure… reputable companies will let you check them out first.

• Check out businesses with the Better Business Bureau by logging on to www.bbb.org. Get a list of BBB-accredited businesses in the category you need on the website or by calling 1-800-866-6668. If a business says they are BBB Accredited, verify it with the BBB first.

• Verify the company has liability and worker’s-compensation insurance, as well as licensing if required. If a contractor cannot provide proof of it, reconsider.

• If paying costs yourself, get several estimates. Remember, businesses can charge whatever price they like. Get a written contract and warranty for work to be done. This helps protect the consumer and the business.

• If it’s an out-of-town or out-of-state company, ask how any warranty issues or problems will be addressed long after work is done and the company is gone.

• NEVER pay the entire amount of the job up front.

• Do not let strangers in your home to “evaluate” damage. Legitimate businesses will survey damage with your insurance adjuster to determine coverage. Contact BBB with any reports of scams so others can be warned.