Don’t be a repair scam victim
September 18, 2008
O’Fallon
Due to the recent flooding, the O’Fallon Police Department is urging residents to be aware of ways to keep themselves from becoming victims to water damage repair scams.
According to Alliance Water Resources, approximately 13 homes reported water damage in the O’Fallon area. According to Duckett Creek Sanitary District, approximately 43 residents of St. Charles County (including the O’Fallon area) reported water damage.
The Federal Trade Commission has tips on deciding on a contractor. Check to see whether the company is local and if they have a track record with references in the area. Can you see previous work? Take a look at the company vehicle: Does it have the company name, address and phone number on it?
Get at least two bids in writing. Look at the contractor’s business license, and keep the number. Also, check with the Better Business Bureau, friends and neighbors to make sure complaints haven’t been filed against the company. In addition, beware of contractors that contact you directly prior to you attempting to contact that particular company.
Pay in installments as the work is completed or in one large payment once the work is done and has been inspected. Before you pay, insist that the contractor give you a sworn statement that all materials have been paid for and all subcontractors have been paid. This protects you from liens that may be placed on your property if all suppliers and subcontractors haven’t been paid.
Never sign your insurance check over to a contractor. Instead, arrange with your bank for a Certificate of Completion. The bank will pay the contractor for each stage of the job only after you have given your okay.
If you suspect a repair rip-off, call the consumer protection division of your state Attorney General’s Office. For the St. Louis Office, call 314-340-6816 or go to http://ago.mo.gov/. Also contact your local police department.
The contact information for the Better Business Bureau of Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois: Phone—314-645-3300. Office Hours—8:30 to 5:00. Service reps are available from 9:00 – 4:00. Also contact by email at bbb@stlouisbbb.org.
For other helpful tips, check the Federal Trade Commission web site at http://www.ftc.gov.
Copyright 2008 Neighbors About Town