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Scam Alert: Home Improvement Cons

Posted in Consumer Protection on June 1, 2021

Better Business Bureau (BBB) issued a warning about a scam involving fraudulent home improvement contractors.

After major weather events, consumers often seek out contractors for home repairs. BBB says in instances like these, be wary of high-pressure sales tactics, upfront fees and fly-by-night businesses.

Scams usually start off with a knock on the door, a flyer or an ad. A contractor may offer a low price or a short timeframe. One common method is when the crook claims to be working in your neighborhood on another project and has leftover supplies.

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BBB issued a warning about home improvement scams.

To protect yourself, follow these tips from BBB:

  • Watch out for “red flags.”
    • Say no to cash-only deals, high-pressure sales tactics, high upfront payments, handshake deals without a contract and on-site inspections.
  • Ask for references and check them out.
    • Bad contractors will be hesitant to share this information. Scammers will not wait for you to do your research.
  • Know the law.
    • Work with local businesses that have proper identification, licensing and insurance.

Find trusted, vetted home improvement contractors near you and read tips on hiring a home improvement contractor.

For more information, check out this BBB tip on storm chasers. And before you hire anybody, read these tips on hiring a contractor.

To report a scam, go to BBB Scam Tracker.