The Better Business Bureau is warning area homeowners about potential scammers looking to take advantage of people dealing with flooding in their homes as this weekend’s warmer weather melts last week’s snow.
Homeowners should be careful when choosing a contractor to fix flooding issues, according to a statement from the BBB.
It’s best to request bids from two or three different companies and carefully read all agreements, guarantees and instructions before signing any contracts, the BBB said. Consumers should never sign blank or partially blank contracts.
“Make sure all oral promises are put in writing,” Steve J. Bernas of the BBB said in the statement. “Be wary of vaguely worded provisions, exclusions or limitations which could pose a problem later.”
State law requires a contract for all repairs totaling more than $1,000, Bernas said.
Consumers should get all price quotes or estimates in writing, determine whether the contractor has insurance and check with local and county government to see if permits are required for the work they need done, the BBB said.
