Be Careful When Hiring Contractors For Disaster Repairs
Release Date: July 17, 2003
Release Number: 1475-05
» More Information on Kentucky Severe Storms, Flooding, Mud and Rock Slides, and Tornadoes
Frankfort, KY -- Have you found a contractor to help clean up and repair damage from the June storms and floods?
If so, before signing on the dotted line, check with the Commonwealth of Kentucky's Consumer Protection Division at (888) 432-9257, state and federal disaster recovery officials said today.
Attorney General Ben Chandler is warning victims of damage from recent storms about the potential for "fly by night" contractors or "storm chasers" coming in and taking advantage of people.
Chandler urges consumers to be very cautious when hiring contractors for repairs from damage caused by recent storms. Consumers should use only reputable contractors and check references, including the Better Business Bureau and Attorney General's Office.
Consumers should never pay large amounts up front in advance of the work being performed. To check out a contractor with the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General's Office, call toll-free (888) 432-9257.
Here are some scams - and ways to avoid them - from the Consumer Protection Division:
- Shoddy Construction: Transient contractors and fly-by-night remodelers are drawn to disasters. Tip: Use local businesses. If you don't have first-hand knowledge or a trustworthy reference, contact Kentucky's Consumer Protection Division and the Better Business Bureau. Ask if they have any complaints or other information about the business.
- Price Gouging: Unscrupulous individuals may charge unreasonably high prices for products in short supply like building material or generators. Tip: Get more than one estimate. If you think you're deliberately being gouged, report the contractor to the Kentucky Consumer Protection Division.
- Get It In Writing: Specify the work to be done, the price for the work and an hourly rate for any additional work before allowing any contractor to begin. Get a copy of the final signed contract. Don't sign off until the work is completed to your satisfaction. Tip: Get estimates in writing from several contractors before selecting who will help you clean up.
Consumers who have problems with a contractor or have been victims of fraud are urged to contact the Commonwealth of Kentucky Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at (888) 432-9257.
Last Modified: Thursday, 17-Jul-2003 10:35:33