ATLANTA (SmyrnaVinings.News) — Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr is warning residents to watch for price gouging and scams as they prepare for Hurricane Isaias.
State price gouging protections apply to goods and services covered by emergency declarations, including gasoline, diesel and other petroleum products. Residents who suspect violations can report them to the attorney general’s Consumer Protection Division.
The protections: Gov. Brian Kemp’s emergency order addressing petroleum supply disruptions took effect Sept. 29. A separate state of emergency in anticipation of Hurricane Isaias took effect Oct. 8.
While the emergency remains in effect, retailers generally cannot charge more for covered goods and services than they charged immediately before the declaration.
The law allows increases that accurately reflect higher costs for new inventory or transportation, plus the retailer’s average markup percentage during the 10 days before the emergency declaration. A higher price alone therefore does not necessarily establish a violation.
The fraud concerns: Carr also urged homeowners to understand their rights before entering repair contracts after a natural disaster. His office provides information about Georgia’s additional protections for homeowners hiring contractors after storms.
“Unfair and deceptive business practices won’t be tolerated,” Carr said.
How to report concerns: You can report suspected scams or price gouging by calling 404-651-8600 or 800-869-1123 (toll-free within Georgia), or by submitting a complaint online.
Report suspected insurance fraud involving roofers or other contractors to the state insurance commissioner’s office at 404-656-2070 or 800-656-2298.
Residents experiencing delays from their insurance company or seeking answers about their coverage can also call 800-656-2298 or visit the [insurance commissioner’s website](https://oci.georgia.gov/).
Storm updates are available through https://gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-isaias.
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