Avoid Repair and Remodeling Scams

When a homeowner is faced with a repair or remodeling, especially if the damage occurred as a result of a natural disaster or fire, the temptation to “grab the first contractor” is very strong.  However, this is usually not the wisest decision. Natural disasters, especially, tend to bring out the “scam artists”.  While it is disgusting to think that people would actually try to take advantage of victims of hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, other “acts of God”, the sad truth is that they do and they will.  Therefore, even though the urge to “get something done, NOW” should be suppressed until the first few days or weeks have passed.

Most insurance companies will not have made a full settlement right away, as it is.  They may have given out an “emergency needs” check; however, it will probably only cover urgent situations such as renting a hotel room, apartment, or home for a short while, or replacing those items that are necessary for day-to-day living.

Therefore, ANYONE who appears in the area where a natural disaster has occurred, or contacts a homeowner immediately after a fire, may possible by a “scam artist”.  One sure way of knowing that something is not right is if the “contractor” says that he can begin repair work immediately, even before the insurance has even begun to discuss a settlement, stating that whatever the insurance company awards the homeowner is what the repairs will cost.

This will almost always not be the case.  The “contractor” may not even complete the work, or may use poor-quality materials.  Further, it is almost a certainty that once the settlement check is delivered, the “contractor” will all of a sudden “realize” that the repairs turned out to be much more expensive, and the homeowner will just have to pay the difference.

Before hiring any contractor, always take the necessary steps to properly screen them. Contact references, check insurance and license information and never rush into a decision to hire...always take your time!

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• Hiring Home Remodeling Contractors
• Avoid Repair and Remodeling Scams
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