Don’t Get Scammed

Don’t Get Scammed After a Fire

Common Pitches That Are Actually Scams:

  • “The Fire Dept. sent me to check on you.”

→ The fire department does not send out reps without telling you directly.

  • “I’m with a fire victim charity or referral service.”

→ These are often for-profit lead generators paid to sell your info to contractors.

  • “Your insurance company sent me.”

→ Unless you’ve spoken to your adjuster and were told to expect someone, this is a red flag.

Rule of Thumb: If you didn’t request help, don’t sign anything and don’t engage.

Call your adjuster directly.

 Your Legal Rights as a Homeowner

Per California Code of Regulations §2695.9:

  • Insurers cannot send or recommend a contractor unless you agree because it is a conflict of interest. We encourage you to be self-sufficient and not dependent in your choices.

Google “California §2695.9” to verify this on a state website.

Verify Every Contractor & Salesperson

Check licenses at: www.CSLB.ca.gov

Use the “License Check” tool to search by license number or name.

Key laws you should know:

  • BPC §7030.5 – Contractors must display license numbers on all contracts, ads, websites, and vehicles.
  • BPC §7153 – Home improvement salespeople must be registered and carry their HIS license card.
  • BPC §7157 – Promising “free upgrades” over $5 (like marble counters) is illegal.

Examples from Coast’s Experience

  • A salesperson offered “free marble countertops” – a clear violation of BPC §7157.
  • Victims were asked to sign contracts by strangers claiming to be affiliated or endorsed by their insurer. Insurers work with almost anyone – but the public thinks that they need someone who is “approved”, and this is not so.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Always ask to see a contractor license number and HIS card (take a photo).
  • Look at company vehicles — is the license number clearly displayed?
  • Visit the company’s website — does it list their CSLB number?
  • Call your adjuster before allowing anyone to inspect, quote, or start work.

Final Thought

Scams work because they’re convincing. Stay skeptical. Stay protected.

Let Coast Construction be your trusted partner

— we’re fully licensed, locally rooted, and here to help.

510.533.7168 • Coast Construction • CSLB Lic# 1075484