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Identifying Contractor Scams
Avoiding contractor scams can be a difficult task. Many consumers are unaware of
the signs of a scandal. In this day and age, being able to identify the signs of
a scam will help a lot of homeowners avoid being ripped off, and ultimately lead
to a better customer service experience.
Here are a few things to watch for when you first come in contact with
contractors (content generated from www.fool.com):
- Scare tactics: "Well, your chimney looks about ready to fall
over. If that lands on someone's head they're a goner. And you could have one
dandy lawsuit."
- The hasty quote on a big job: "I figure $5,800 should do it,"
says the contractor as he glances at the complicated repair, then quickly
scribbles a number on a scrap of paper."
- No identification: "Sorry. I forgot my business cards. You can
always look us up at our post office box address."
- Refusal to provide referrals: "We don't give out customer
names. We respect their privacy. You understand, don't you? I'm sure you
wouldn't want me to give out your name to strangers."
- Pressure tactics: "You'll have to sign up now. The manufacturer
says the prices are going up right away."
- In the neighborhood: "I've just resurfaced your neighbor's
driveway and I've got materials left over to do yours. Looks like it needs work
soon. I'll give you a really good deal."
- Up-front payment: "That's gonna involve a lot of materials.
I'll have to ask you to pay me now."
- Refusal to provide a written guarantee: "If anything goes
wrong, just call me. You have my word."
- Under the table deals: "I can give you a good deal for cash."
- Referral selling: "There's a big rebate for you if you refer
customers to us." Or: "You'll get a special discounted price if we can use your
home as a model to show off our work. We'll just put a sign on the front yard."
Here are some recently published media that highlight some of the top scams and
also provide insight into recognizing scams by contractors:
Use your common sense to detect warning signs. Trust your instincts!
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 "The workers were timely, courteous, tidy, careful and thorough in their prep work. Joseph provided good leadership of his crew and kept the client well informed about schedules and progress. We believe that we received a quality product for a competitive price."
J. and A. Young
Past Customer
Bellevue, Washington
"The students who did my house were seriously motivated to do it right! I'm convinced they did a better job than most "professionals" would have!"
Robert
Past Customer
Santa Barbara, California
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