O'Fallon officials warn residents about tornado damage and contractor scams

In the wake of a recent storm that swept through O'Fallon, Illinois, city officials gathered on March 17, 2025, to address the aftermath of what has now been confirmed as an EF-1 tornado by the National Weather Service. The storm left many residents grappling with significant property damage, prompting urgent discussions on safety and recovery measures during the City Council meeting.

Mayor of O'Fallon opened the dialogue by urging residents affected by the tornado to exercise caution when hiring contractors for repairs. "There are always scammers who come around and try to take advantage of a situation like this," he warned, emphasizing the importance of verifying the legitimacy of contractors. The city has taken proactive steps to assist residents, sharing resources on its website and social media platforms to help them navigate the recovery process.

City officials highlighted several key points for residents to consider when seeking repairs. They advised homeowners to request copies of contractors' licenses and proof of insurance, as well as to utilize the Illinois Secretary of State's business entity search to confirm a contractor's registration. Additionally, the city provided a checklist for verifying licensed roofing contractors, ensuring that residents can make informed decisions.

During the meeting, it was clarified that while some minor repairs, such as shingle replacements and siding work, do not require permits, more extensive repairs—especially those involving electrical or structural changes—do. Residents were reminded that the city will not send inspectors without prior scheduling and that legitimate disaster workers will never solicit money on-site.

The discussion also touched on the regulations surrounding door-to-door solicitors. Contractors seeking to offer their services in person must obtain a solicitor's permit from the city and wear a visible identification lanyard. This measure aims to protect residents from potential fraud during a vulnerable time.

As O'Fallon begins to recover from the storm's impact, city officials remain committed to supporting residents through this challenging period, providing essential information and resources to ensure a safe and effective recovery process. For further assistance, residents are encouraged to visit the city’s website or contact local authorities directly.