Contractor Fraud
Red Flags to look out for when interviewing a potential contractor:
- Beware of contractors who won’t provide references, who request payments in cash or ask for payment up front.
- Avoid door-to-door solicitation.
- Be concerned if contractor offers you price breaks for finding other customers.
- When a contractor asks you to get the required building permits rather than doing it themselves this may mean that they may not have the proper licensing required for the job.
- Any contractor that pressures you for an immediate decision shouldn’t be considered.
- Look out for contractors who just happen to have materials left over from a previous job.
What can you do if a contractor is fraudulent?
Contact state or local consumer protection agency or the consumer fraud division of the prosecutor’s office to find out what legal protections and enforcement options you have in your state that target dishonest contractors. Report the complaint to the Better Business Bureau.
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Other Legal Matters with Regards to Remodeling Projects:
Rain Checks
There is a law that requires vendors to issue rain checks to customers if they advertise a bargain that they can’t supply.
Lead Paint
Federal Law requires that contractors provide lead information to residents before renovating a pre-1978 house. Before any work begins, a contractor should provide you with a pamphlet called “Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home”