Phony home repair contractors victimize many homeowners each year. A typical scenario involves an uninvited door-to-door solicitation from a contractor claiming to have a “special price” on roofing, siding, windows, asphalt, or other services. Some state they've done work for neighboring houses and have extra materials that they can offer a discounted price.
The price is only good “right now” and the contractor requests all or most of the price paid up front. Some of these contractors work alone and others travel together in roaming groups, often known as Travelers. Once a homeowner pays for their services, they usually disappear having done little or none of the promised work. Any work that is done is usually of poor quality.
Tips for Avoiding Home Repair Scams:
- Never allow an uninvited contractor into your home to “look around” or make an “inspection.”
- Say no to contractors using high pressure sales tactics or requesting that you make an immediate decision.
- Before you spend any significant amount of money on home repairs, obtain bids from at least 3 different contractors.
- Before you select your contractor, check with the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies and your local government to determine if your contractor is properly licensed.
- Prior to selection, check the complaint and business history with your organizations like your local Better Business Bureau.
- Demand the selected contractor sign a written contract that spells out specific details of the agreement including: when the work will be started, the quality and type of all materials to be used, and when the work will be completed. Insist on making partial payments under the contract as specific work is completed to your satisfaction.
- Require your contractor to obtain mechanic’s lien waivers from all suppliers and subcontractors.
If you believe you have been victimized by a home repair scam or wish to report suspicious activity, please file a report here.