Roanoke County Police Criminal Investigations Division Crime Prevention Awareness Spring and Summer Seasons are a time of many home improvement projects. Unfortunately it is also the time for many home improvement scams. Homeowners can greatly reduce the chance of being a victim of these scams by being diligent in selecting individuals or companies to perform home improvement projects. Two common scams involve unexpected offers to repair a problem the scam artists noticed or to seal a driveway because they were in the area. The other is to show up and start working on the house or driveway without the homeowner’s knowledge or consent and, halfway through, demand payment for the work. The scam artists particularly target the elderly. Watch out for your neighbors and call local enforcement if you feel it is a scam. The following suggestions may help you avoid becoming a victim. Never conduct any business with a company or individual who unexpectantly knocks on your door and offers to work on some type of home improvement project. Ask to see proof of a Virginia Contractor’s license. Ask to see proof of a local business license. Ask to see proof of liability insurance. If the quoted price seems low and too good to be true, there are probably hidden charges. Use the internet to research the individual and companies proposing to work on your project. Use a contract that sets out work to be done, material to be used and terms of payments. Use businesses and individuals who have established local addresses and local area phone numbers. Search their name at the Virginia Department of Profession web site. Check with the local Better Business Bureau (BBB). Don’t be rushed to sign any contract. Don’t feel pressured or obligated to pay for any work or materials. Call 911 and ask for an officer or deputy.
Posted on: Tue, 11 Jun 2013 19:10:15 +0000
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