If you sustained damage to your home or have large trees in your yard that need to be removed due to the storms that came through the area Monday night, be on the lookout for contractors seeking to cash in on the damage.
Fly-by-night contractors often go door to door after storms offering to help victims clear debris or patch up homes.
The Better Business Bureau urges you to be cautious of door-to-door sales people who pressure you to choose them as a contractor. Seek three bids from prospective contractors based on the same specifications, materials and labor needed to complete the project.
Ask if the contractor is covered under insurance and has met the licensing and bond requirements. Consumers should obtain the name of the insurance carrier and call to verify coverage.
Read and understand a contract before signing it. Get any verbal promises in writing and never pay for the project in full before work is done.
Most projects require permits so make sure those requirements are taken care of before a project has started.
If you feel you may have been the victim of a scam, call your local law enforcement agency.
