Massachusetts Officials Collecting Storm Damage Reports

Emergency management officials are asking Massachusetts residents and business owners to let the state know about damage sustained in last week’s tornadoes.

The information will be collected to assess the magnitude of the damage and assist in determining whether the homeowners and business owners are eligible for federal disaster aid.

The state Office of Consumer Affairs is also urging residents fixing up their homes after the tornadoes to beware of unscrupulous contractors.

The office says out-of-state companies often pour into disaster areas offering assistance. Consumer Affairs says homeowners should only hire companies licensed in Massachusetts that are familiar with state building codes and laws.

Licenses for builders, electricians and plumbers can be checked online.