Fear and Fraud

Fear

Some contractors use fear to sell more extensive work than needed.  Problems uncovered during a project will be obvious to you and you can always get a second or third opinion before agreeing to any additional work.

Fraud

Not all contractors operate within the law.  The most common home improvement frauds are roof repair, painting, driveway sealing, and termite inspection.  Also, you will always want to check the identification of all “inspectors.”  Check the company’s reputation with your local Consumer Affairs or Better Business Bureau before you authorize any work.
Tip-offs of rip-offs from less than reputable contractors:

• solicits door-to-door


• offers you discounts for finding other customers


• just happens to have materials left over from a previous job


• only accepts cash payments


• asks you to get the required building permits


• does not list a business number in the local telephone directory


• tells you your job will be a “demonstration”


• pressure you for an immediate decision


• offers exceptionally long guarantees


• asks you to pay for the entire job upfront


• suggest that you borrow money from a lender the contractor knows.  If you’re not careful, you could lose your home through a home improvement loan scam.