How to avoid repair ripoffs.

After a hard year of hurricanes on the East Coast, coupled with what seems to be a never-ending string of other natural disasters, from floods to hailstorms to record snowfalls and sub-zero temperatures, many homeowners are scrambling to pick up the pieces. If they are not careful, though, they may be hit by a second disaster not long after the first: fraudulent fly-by-night contractors.

All homeowners are susceptible to repair ripoffs, but those hit by a natural disaster are particularly vulnerable because they often are in shock and are preoccupied with immediate recovery. If you are a disaster victim, it's advisable to follow these tips from the Institute of Certified Financial Planners:

* Try to make some emergency repairs yourself. That way you won't feel you have to grab the first contractor who comes by. Cover holes in a roof to keep out the rain, board up windows, etc. More complex repairs, such as a chimney in danger of falling, may have to be fixed by a professional.

* Be wary of unsolicited contractors. Fly-by-night outfits that cruise neighborhoods looking to sting desperate homeowners often charge exorbitant prices or fail to complete the work.

* Demand a business card or at least a phone number. Write down the license plate number and the driver's license number of a contractor offering unsolicited services. Check with the Better Business Bureau.

* Be leery of contractors offering bargain prices. They may say they have "leftover" materials from another job or they can "get to you right away" in the wake of a widespread...