Officials Warn of Isaias Scams, Gouging

Gov. Kay Ivey issued an emergency proclamation Wednesday covering dozens of Alabama counties ahead of Hurricane Isaias. The order triggers the Aggravated Home Repair Fraud law, making unlicensed homebuilding a Class C felony. Jobs over $10,000 need a homebuilders license; storm roof jobs over $2,500 need a roofer's license. Unlicensed work is normally a Class A misdemeanor. Karen Reeves of the BBB said scammers use AI-generated fake storm-damage photos in donation appeals. "This world of AI we live in, anybody can create anything. They can create websites that look so legitimate. So we've got to be careful," Reeves said. She urged people not to randomly donate on social media to strangers. Seth Gowan of the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board said the board will work with law enforcement and district attorneys to prosecute unlicensed operators for the felony. "Taking advantage of fellow Alabamians who suffer damage or loss of property will not be tolerated," Gowan said. He told residents to be cautious and patient, work with insurers, check licenses, ask questions, and call law enforcement if a contractor is not there for the right reasons. CONTESTED: No major factual disputes found across sources. License checks: 1-800-304-0853 or www.hblb.alabama.gov. Fraud or price-gouging reports: www.alabamaag.gov or 1-800-392-5658.