Home Improvement Scams
When deciding to do home renovations, the last thing a person wants is to fall victim to some type of home improvement scam. It's wise to watch out for them and know the warning signs that allow you to make the right decision. It is good to know the clues that make it evident that there may be a need to choose someone else for your home renovations. As one of the top consumer complaints, general contractor scams are rampant in every state. The biggest complaints are usually about hiring someone who did shoddy work. Even worse, those who take payments and do absolutely no work at all. These criminals use all types of scams to take people's money and provide nothing in return. It is important to find a licensed and experienced general contractor company for your home improvement needs.
Warning Signs to Watch Out for a Home Improvement Scam
- If there has been a recent hailstorm or tornado damage in your area, beware that con artists love to come out during this time to take advantage of people with affected homes.
- A reduced-price offer which sounds to good to be true. The con artist may tell you that he or she can offer this fantastic price because of a recent home improvement job that was finished nearby and the worker still has materials leftover.
- Only accepts cash and asks you to pay the entire price of the home renovations upfront.
- Refuses to offer a contract or any type of written agreement.
- Never talks specifically about the actual price. Speaks in percentages and tells you that you can save a certain discounted amount off the entire cost of the home improvement job. Never reveals the actual price.
- No phone number or listed street address. This type of person may use a post office box and some type of answering machine.
- Comes to your home unsolicited giving the impression to be honest and helpful.
- Tries to pressure a homeowner into doing unnecessary home renovations to further inflate the price of the job to earn undeserved payment.
- Uses scare tactics such as "your heater will explode" or "your water is not safe for drinking"
Do Not Hire an Unsolicited General Contractor
Even if someone appears honest and helpful, it is not a good idea to hire someone who randomly approaches your door. These criminals will take your money and disappear before job completion or even attempt to not do the work at all. They will disappear without a trace and steal your hard-earned money. These types of con-artists are usually unlicensed. It is a good idea to ask for some proof of licensure before hiring someone. In addition, it is never a good idea to admit a random, unsolicited stranger into your home. This leaves you and your family vulnerable to some form of robbery.
Deal With a Licensed General Contractor
- Get recommendations from friends or neighbors who are known do great home improvement work.
-Always ask to see a general contractor license. Check the license number as well as the expiration date. Most states require a general contractor to display their license number on contracts, company vehicles, and any company advertisements.
- Check your local consumer protection agency to see if there has been any complaint lodged against the individual/company.
- Get estimates from more than one general contractor company. It is wise to shop around to find the best deal on your home improvement needs.
Make the Right Home Improvement Decision
If you check this website you will be able to hire an experienced general contractor company that will prove to be a real asset. This is the best decision to get the desired results you need in home renovations.
