Repairing your home is a good thing, but lost dollars on shoddy or nonexistent repairs is to be avoided!
National Consumer Protection Week, March 4-10, is a time to learn to be a good consumer and not a victim. According to the Better Business Bureau, “red flags” that will help you spot a scam include: cash-only deals, high-pressure sales tactics, high upfront payments and handshake deals without a contract. Be cautious if you are approached by someone you have never seen before who claims to be ‘working in the neighborhood. Always ask for references from anyone seeking to do a job on your property and follow up by speaking to other customers or inspecting the quality of work firsthand. Dishonest contractors and/or potential scam artists may become less enthusiastic about any potential project if they are put on notice that you’re going to be a smart consumer.” If you have been scammed or suspect a scam, try to get the “contractor’s” license plate or other identifying information and contact the local police. There are several ways to help yourself and others:
