From April, until about the end of August, it is a great time to
build and renovate, until the winter again comes. However, springtime also
brings out the scammers.
Types of
scams
All these scammers get access to gullible people because they were
supposedly working in the area or because they had materials left. The scams
also include legitimate materials which have been watered down. The sheriff
said crimes for overcharging elderly people or scamming them carry enhanced
penalties if the scam artists are caught, but local police have not had much
luck charging people involved in the schemes because they are in and out
quickly and are hard to identify. Another reason may also be that people are
embarrassed to admit theyve been scanned.
Protecting yourself from a scammer
1.
Beware of
anyone who approaches you for work around the house and asks for payment
upfront. The money gets paid once the job is done and you are satisfied with
the work.
2.
Ask for a
name, drivers license, and check with the Better Business Bureau.
3.
Write down
the license plate number of the person who has approached you for work.
4.
If you
happen to be approached by someone who by all appearances look like a
contractor who suggests some renovations or driveway jobs for you, tell him he
will have to pay for the materials and you will reimburse him once he brings
the receipts.
5.
If you have
been scammed
, inform the police and educate people in the neighborhood by
warning them to beware.