BBB Offers Checklist to Help Avoid Home Contractor Fraud in the Event of Storm Damage

Better Business Bureau (BBB) urges consumers to consider the following tips when hiring a contractor to help avoid home contractor scams.

• Beware of door-to-door salesmen making unsolicited contacts.
• Get straight answers to your questions.
• Be wary if the contractor won't accept a check or wants the check made out to him instead of his company.
• Deal with local businesses rather than those who come through town.
• Don't be pushed into quick decisions.
• Ask for references - not from his favorites, but from his last three customers.
• Verify licences and insurance coverage directly with the agencies; don't take copies at face value.
• Contact BBB to check on the company's reliability and complaint history.
• Get everything in writing and read it carefully; never sign contracts with blank spaces.
• Check funding sources rather than just accepting financing arrangements offered by the contractor.
• Don't pay too much up-front (usually not more than 1/3) and never pay the entire balance until the job is completed satisfactorly.