VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation is warning residents of storm chaser scams following the EF-3 tornado in Virginia Beach.

According to a tweet from DPOR, scammers attempt to profit off of natural disasters and will try to take advantage of vulnerable homeowners.

Below are some of the warning signs of a scam or an unlicensed contractor that people should look out for:

• Soliciting door-to-door
• Failing to provide proof of credentials
• Refusing to offer a contract
• They only accept cash or cash app payments
• They ask you to pay for the entire job up-front

Those looking to hire a contractor can best protect themselves by verifying that the contractor has a valid license in Virginia with DPOR’s License Lookup or calling (804) 367-8511.

To learn more about unlicensed contractors and scammers, click here.