Erie County Legislators Lynne Dixon, Joseph Lorigo and Ted Morton joined the New York State Attorney General, along with local, county and state officials, at a press conference today to support efforts to aid victims who were subjected to price gouging during the November storm that dumped more than six feet of snow on their districts.
“When much of Erie County was battling this unprecedented storm, communities were assisted by a lot of outside help. Unfortunately, some contractors took advantage of the dire situation, and charged customers excessive amounts of money to clear driveways and roofs,” said Legislator Lorigo. “This behavior is unacceptable and those who believe they were a victim of price gouging can report their claim and seek restitution.”
“I think many residents may not be aware of what constitutes price gouging and if they were a victim. Getting this information out helps residents recognize price gouging and directs them to where they can get assistance. The storm was devastating for many residents as it was, contractors preying on those in need to disgraceful and I want to thank the Attorney General’s Buffalo Office for working to hold the guilty accountable,” said Legislator Dixon.
Anyone who suspects they were a victim of price gouging during the storm should report any potential occurrences by calling (800) 771-7755 or at www.ag.ny.gov.
The Legislators also announce that the Attorney General’s Office has the Home Owner Protection Program (HOPP) and lawyers and housing counselors available to help residents with insurance claims, address contractor issues, and navigate other storm related problems that could impact homeownership. Also created was the “Escalations Unit” within the Buffalo Regional Office, which will engage directly with an insurance provider or lender on behalf of a consumer who is having problems with a mortgage lender or insurance provider if referred by one of the HOPP organizations.
According to the Attorney General’s Office, the following services will be available to anyone in the 10-county region affected by the record snowstorm. They will have access to these legal service organizations and housing agencies:
• Belmont Housing Resources for Western New York
• Buffalo Urban League
• Legal Assistance of Western New York
• Western New York Law Center
• West Side Neighborhood Housing Services
The Empire Justice Center, a statewide nonprofit legal aid group, is assisting the Attorney General’s Office.
“If residents are in need of assistance, they are encouraged to utilize the State’s Homeowner Protection Program. There have been reports of scams, agencies claiming they can help residents with insurance claims. Residents need to be aware these scams exist and should reach out to the state program if they need assistance,” said Legislator Morton. “I know a lot of residents in my district have questions and suffered damage to their property, and hopefully they will get the help they need.”
The HOPP program can be reached 24 hours a day at 1-855-HOME-456 or online at www.AGHomehelp.com.
During the press conference, it was also announced that the Attorney General is calling on banks, mortgage providers, and utility companies to suspend late fees following the temporary suspension of the U.S. Postal Service. Mail delivery was suspended for several days, creating potential for a backlog in delivering mail, including key correspondence like utility bills, credit card statements, and other bills. The late payment of bills could result in fees and harm to consumers’ credit ratings.
For additional information, please CLICK HERE to read the Attorney General’s press release.