When Hurricane Helene struck in September, it caused massive damage and led to one of the biggest insurance claim events in Central Insurance’s history. But alongside the destruction came a troubling problem: fraud. Out-of-state contractors, roofers, and tree service companies rushed into affected areas quickly. Some took advantage of vulnerable residents by charging high prices for little work, making recovery even harder.
To tackle this issue and prevent future scams, Central’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is holding the North Carolina Property Seminar on October 2, 2025, in Raleigh. The event will bring together insurance experts, law enforcement, lawyers, and regulators from both North and South Carolina. The goal is to share ideas, learn from each other, and build stronger connections to fight fraud effectively.
Jeff Lieberman, Central Insurance’s director of anti-fraud and recovery, emphasized that the company stands with policyholders. He explained that the seminar will highlight the clever methods the SIU uses to stop fraudsters and ensure recovery funds reach those who truly need them. Lieberman and his team don’t just investigate fraud—they work closely with law enforcement to bring criminals to justice.
Fraud affects more than just insurance companies; it impacts whole communities. For example, one elderly couple was scammed into paying $10,000 to remove a small pile of limbs even though their home had no damage. Stories like this show how scammers prey on people who don’t know where to turn after a disaster.
The seminar aims to strengthen the industry’s defenses. Attendees will leave with practical tips on spotting scams and a clearer understanding of how property fraud happens in the region. Central’s team will also share what they’ve learned from past cases and investigations.
Mark Young, a major case investigator at Central, said, “We want fraudsters to recognize Central as a force that won’t back down. We have the resources and partnerships to catch them. We don’t ignore fraud; we pursue those behind it.”
The North Carolina Property Seminar is open for registration through the National Insurance Crime Bureau and the North Carolina chapter of the International Association of Special Investigation Units. By bringing experts together to share knowledge and build networks, Central Insurance hopes to protect residents and make it harder for scammers to take advantage when disaster strikes.