After the fire, the predators arrive

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) - After a massive 5-alarm fire on MLK last August destroyed an under-construction apartment building and damaged nearby homes, some of the residents were approached by a company offering a helping hand.

Representatives for water restoration companies approached them and convinced some into signing contracts for service at a low cost -- only to be slapped with bills for thousands of dollars.

One woman who contacted KOIN 6 News got a bill for $3300.

Rep. Chip Shields, D-Portland, is now drafting legislation to protect victims of disaster like this. The company also target people whose homes are damaged by breaking pipes, floods or wind damage. One provision would be to prevent businesses from coming within 1000 feet of a scene without an invitation.

"I think anyone is vulnerable under those circumstances," said Canby Fire Chief Ted Kunze. "Before she know it she was being approached by these restoration companies and being pressured into signing a contract for them to do the work, to clean her apartment."

KOIN 6 News found some some companies -- also known as fire chasers -- listen to scanner to find out when and where disasters are happening.

"I just don't think it's appropriate to respond unsolicited," said Kunze, who is also the president of the Oregon Fire Chiefs Association.

Some victims who filed a complaint with the Oregon Department of Justice named a company called Servpro Restoration. A spokesperson did not return KOIN 6 News calls and emails for comment, but many of their stores do have policies prohibiting unsolicted business.

Lawmakers want to hear from anyone who has been a victim of this tactic.

Kunze said people can always call the fire department for help. "Every fire department has an incident commander," he said.

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After the fire, the predators arrive