BBB: STORM VICTIMS, BEWARE OF CONTRACTOR SCAMS The recent damage created by tornadoes and severe hail storms in the Heartland have brought out the best in people, as strangers reach out to help others in need. Unfortunately, the aftermath of a crisis also brings out contractors who take advantage of those who have already been victimized. Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving Nebraska, South Dakota, The Kansas Plains and Southwest Iowa is warning both businesses and residents affected by the recent storms to beware of storm chasers/out-of-town contractors (travelers) soliciting business. “These firms typically set up temporary shops in the area to capture construction work caused by the storm’s damage. Sometimes they canvass the area with flyers or go from door to door offering their services. While some of these contractors may offer a low price and fast repairs, they may not stand behind their work or have the proper licensure,” stated BBB President and CEO Jim Hegarty. The BBB offers the following tips for storm victims: • Get the companys complete name, address and phone number. Be skeptical of any vague or hesitant answers or no offers of contracts, brochures or anything in writing. Beware of high-pressure sales tactics. A reputable company will be happy to let you check them out first. • Make sure your contractor has all the appropriate permits for the work they are doing and verify that the company has liability and workers comp insurance. If a contractor cannot provide proof, beware. If possible, verify that the insurance is active by contacting the contractor’s insurance company directly. • If it is an out-of-town or out-of-state company, ask how any warranty issues or problems will be addressed after the work is done and the company is gone. • Ask for references from previous jobs and check them out before signing the contract. • Before work starts, have a signed, written contract including start and completion dates, exact costs, specific work to be done and warranty information. Read any fine print carefully and understand all terms before signing. • Get at least 3-4 quotes from contractors and insist that payments be made to the company, not an individual. • If you have damage, check with your homeowners insurance to have an adjuster sent to determine if and how much they will cover to repair or replace damaged property. • Be highly suspicious of a contractor that asks you to pay for the entire job upfront. He may take your money and never return. Disaster victims should never feel forced to make a hasty decision or to choose an unknown contractor. “Start With Trust” by visiting bbb.org or by calling the BBB’s office at 800-649-6814 to get Business Reviews or lists of BBB Accredited repair firms.
Posted on: Wed, 18 Jun 2014 19:44:55 +0000
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015