OAKLAND CITY, IN (WFIE) -
A security bracelet system might be working to keep criminals out of storm-ridden areas.
A flood of contractors have made their way into Oakland City, offering damage estimates to storm victims.
City officials want to make sure you know how to spot a credible contractor for a less-than-credible one.
Gibson Street is one of the hardest hit areas in Oakland City, and homeowners say they've had several contractors approach them.
Officials advise only talking to contractors who have one of certain bracelets on, because this means they've registered with the city.
Heavy winds may have caused this damage to Galen Egdorf's home, but now, it's his head that's spinning.
He has tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage and has been bombarded with repair men at his door.
"Ten to 15, mostly out of towners," noted Egdorf.
City Officials have come up with a system to keep fake repair crews out of town. All contractors must check in at the fire house.
They have to provide proof of liability insurance, get a bracelet, and then get a permit at city hall before going out and talking to residents.
"We actually had a lot of contractors agree with it. We only had a few that disagreed and they walked away and never came back," said Oakland City Fire Chief Jim Deffendall.
Chief Deffendall says it's not full-proof, but it helps.
James Moseley with Ohio Valley Construction offers his advice. He says to ask for proof of insurance and call the contractor's insurance agent to see where they are located.
Ask for references, several years back, and make sure the contractor warranties their work.
"If your starting to ruffle feathers, it's a bad sign. You really have to watch out for yourself, because these criminals are creative and they know how to get the money out of you," Moseley said.
For Egdorf, it will be a long road ahead, but he says he going to be patient and get the work done right.
"I would do your research, at least get someone you know and trust here," he said.
If you are doing your own clean-up, city officials ask that you place tree branches near the road and do not park your car on the street.
Crews need the roads clear Saturday for trucks to remove debris.
Going back to the bracelet system, city officials say it's worked so well, next time during a storm they may have two different colored bracelet, so they can separate volunteers from contractors.
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