Call Kurtis: Unlicensed Contractors Warned To Stay Away From Butte Fire, Valley Fire Areas

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — As soon as the ash cools, scammers find their way into devastated neighborhoods to prey on fire victims.

Fire victims may feel competition to lock down a contractor fast to rebuild, but it's important to make sure they're licensed.

"These unscrupulous people are the worst of the worst," said Rick Lopes with the Contractors State License Board. "They see this as an opportunity to take advantage of these homeowners. The last thing we want to see is these people have already victimized once. The last thing we want to see they want to victimized a second time."

For those rushing in to take advantage, it's a felony to contract without a license in a disaster zone.

Homeowners shouldn't rush into a decision and hire the first contractor who comes along. Get three estimates, ask for references and get a written contract.

The law says you should only put 10 percent down or $1,000, whichever is less.