Home Improvement Fraud

Home repairs and improvements can be costly. Watch out if:

• Somebody offers to do an expensive job for an unusually low price
• If a firm offers to make a “free” inspection or if the person just happened to be in the neighborhood.
• The most popular home improvement frauds are roof repair and painting, driveway sealing, and termite inspection.

To avoid home improvement and repair fraud, try the following:

• Always get several estimates for every repair job, and compare prices and terms. Check to see if there is a charge for estimates.
• Ask your friends for recommendations. Alternatively, ask the firm for references – and CHECK THEM!
• Check the identification of all “inspectors.”
• Call the loan Consumer Affairs office or the Better Business Bureau to check the company’s reputation before you authorize any work.
• Be suspicious of high-pressure sales tactics.
• Pay by check – never with cash. Arrange to make the payments in installments.