Clouds aren’t the only things that roll in with severe summer weather. Contractors who attempt to cash in during the aftermath of a storm by promising low prices for home repairs and delivering substandard or incomplete work may also arrive on the scene.
Help protect yourself, your money and your home from repair rip-offs by learning to spot these red flags:
Some Warning Signs of a Scam
Be alert if contractors:
· Offer unsolicited services for such projects as driveway sealing, chimney rebuilds and roof repair – projects that are commonly “pitched” to homeowners.
· Quote a reduced price on the work because of “materials left over from a job down the street.”
· Offer a discount for using your home as a “demonstration.”
· Employ pushy door-to-door sales tactics or advertise through flyers or newspapers.
· Appear to be from out of town or working out of a pickup truck.
· Demand immediate payment in full.
· Accept cash only.
· Provide no written contract.
· Are not willing to produce references.
· Fail to provide proof of insurance and proper licensing.
· Suggest financing or recommend financing through someone they know.
· Ask you to secure any required permits.
· Promise insurance compensation for their repairs.
Ways to Help Protect Yourself
These tips can help you hire a reputable contractor:
· Get multiple quotes from local established businesses.
· Take time to make your decision.
· Do your research. Look into professional affiliations and Better Business
· Bureau reports, and follow up on references from previous clients.
· Check for up-to-date licenses, and verify insurance protection.
· Insist on written estimates and a written contract that includes contact information, important dates and a breakdown of costs. According to Federal Trade Commission rulings, you may be able to cancel a contract of more than $25 within three business days of signing it at your home or in a seller’s temporary business location.
The National Association of Home Builders offers additional tips for hiring a dependable professional contractor on its site. For storm repair tips, visit the Better Business Bureau website. And before you hire any contractor for storm-related repairs, always contact your State Farm® agent, to be sure repairs will be covered.
The information in this article was obtained from various sources. While we believe it to be reliable and accurate, we do not warrant the accuracy or reliability of the information. These suggestions are not a complete list of every loss control measure. The information is not intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. Nor is it intended to effect coverage under any policy. State Farm makes no guarantees of results from use of this information. We assume no liability in connection with the information nor the suggestions made.
Article submitted by Brennan Purdy of State Farm Insurance
My vision is to be an insurance professional whose actions are driven by keeping the customer's best interest as my primary goal. My staff will treat all my customers in a caring, friendly, and professional manner. My office will provide warm, efficient, and seamless services to our customers at all times. I expect my business to be comprised of knowledgeable, multiple-line customers who see my office as their first and best choice for all their insurance and financial service needs
For more information on these and other home safety tips, stop by my office or visit www.brennanpurdy.com. My office is conveniently located in downtown Bethel. 203-798-7300. 211 Greenwood Avenue , Bethel, CT 06801
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