Following multiple rounds of ice and terrible winter weather, homeowners are figuring out how to clean up after the storm. While some clean up efforts can be handled by friendly neighbors and community members, the Better Business Bureau in Western Michigan (BBB®) warns consumers to be cautious when hiring their help.
“Scammers and bad businesses prey on vulnerable situations and pressure victims to make a decision before they have time to think it through and do their research,” says Lisa Frohnapfel, President & CEO of the Better Business Bureau in Western Michigan. “BBB verifies licenses of all Accredited Businesses each year, giving consumers peace of mind.”
Unlicensed people often canvas neighborhoods after storms and offer repair service deals that seem too good to be true. They may use high-pressure sales tactics, such as “it needs to be done right away because it is dangerous”. Many times, homeowners pay for the work but it is never done.
BBB offers the following tips before hiring someone to help with cleanup:
Do your homework. Visit BBB.org to research the company before you make a decision. Make sure any company you hire has working contact information; such as a local address and phone number.
Hire only licensed and insured contractors.
Verify the contractor has a valid license to do the work. While most tree companies do not require state licensing, roofers and other repair companies likely do need to be licensed. You can check on builders licensing with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. Remember, BBB checks every year to make sure all BBB Accredited Businesses have the necessary licenses.
Get multiple bids and seek referrals. Ask at least three companies for bids. The lowest-priced bid may not be the best. A contractor should be able to give you reference names and phone numbers of at least three clients with projects like yours.
Get a written contract and read it. Make sure any verbal promises are included, as well as; the agreed upon price, specific work to be done and the start date and expected completion date. Obtain a signed copy of the final contract before work is started.
Never pay the full amount up front. Be wary of any contractor who demands full payment upfront. Contractors may require a down payment to cover materials, but full payment should not be due until the work is complete and you are satisfied. Pay by credit card, if possible, never with cash. When paying by check, make payments to the company, not an individual.
Additional Information:
Find a reputable, Accredited contractor near you at bbb.org
Report scams to BBB.org/ScamTracker.
