Montgomery, AL – Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has issued a statement in response to the devastating storms that affected 52 of Alabama’s 67 counties over the weekend. In the wake of widespread damage and hardship, state officials are urging residents to remain cautious during recovery efforts.
Governor Kay Ivey declared a state of emergency effective at 2:00 p.m. CDT on March 14, 2025, mobilizing resources to assist affected communities and activating Alabama’s price gouging law to prevent unfair pricing of essential goods and services.
“Our hearts go out to the families grieving their loved ones and to all those facing loss and hardship in the aftermath, as well as the first responders assisting those in need,” said Attorney General Marshall. “As we come together to assess the damage and begin the long road to recovery, we must also remain vigilant against those who seek to exploit this crisis for personal gain. With the Governor’s emergency declaration, Alabama’s price gouging law is now in effect, ensuring that essential goods and services remain fairly priced during this state of emergency.”
Marshall also advised residents to be cautious when hiring contractors for storm damage repairs. He warned against making full payments upfront and emphasized the importance of verifying a contractor’s credentials before agreeing to any work.
The Home Builders Licensure Board (HBLB) and the Attorney General’s Office have provided key steps for residents to follow when hiring contractors for storm-related repairs:
- Verify licensing: Ask to see a contractor’s HBLB license, which is credit card-sized. License status can be checked by calling 1-800-304-0853 or visiting www.hblb.alabama.gov.
- Check references: Be especially cautious if contacted unsolicited or if the contractor is from out of town.
- Get written agreements: Contracts should include the contractor’s name, address, phone number, work description, estimated timeline, and total cost.
- Avoid large upfront payments: Never pay in full before the job is complete. Make sure subcontractors are also paid before finalizing payment.
- Request proof of insurance: Ensure the contractor has workers’ compensation and general liability coverage.
- Confirm contact information: Obtain both an office and a cell phone number, along with a physical business address.
“Do your homework,” said J.R. “Chip” Carden of the HBLB. “Call any references the builder provides, and check with the Board to confirm if a builder is licensed and in good standing. Don’t rush your decision—making a bad choice now could make a difficult situation even worse.”
Attorney General Marshall reminded consumers that Alabama’s price gouging law is in force during the state of emergency. The law prohibits the excessive pricing of goods and services, with a general guideline that a price increase of 25% or more above the average price in the area within the past 30 days—without justification due to supply costs—may be considered unlawful.
“Residents in the affected counties may report concerns of alleged fraud or price gouging to my office for investigation,” said Marshall. Complaints can be filed online at www.alabamaag.gov under the ‘consumer complaint’ section or through the toll-free Consumer Interest Division at 1-800-392-5658.
For additional information about home repair licensing and fraud prevention, contact the Home Builders Licensure Board at 445 Herron Street, Montgomery, Alabama 36104, by calling (334) 242-2230 or 1-800-304-0853, or by visiting www.hblb.alabama.gov.
