Be a Wise Consumer When Hiring Contractors
Release Date: April 8, 2003
Release Number: 1455-28
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Charleston, WV - As people rebuild from flooding, ice and wind-driven rain caused by the severe storms Feb. 16, many who have been affected by the storms will seek contractors to help in the process. Most contractors are reputable, hard working individuals. Some people, however, try to take advantage of repair needs in the wake of a disaster.
"Be especially alert for door-to-door solicitors who hand out make-shift flyers and ask for large cash deposits or advance payments in full," said Stephen Kappa, state coordinating officer.
"As always, if the offer seems too good to be true," said Federal Coordinating Officer Louis Botta, "it probably is." Kappa and Botta recommended the following before hiring a contractor:
- Look first to licensed local contractors who have performed well in the past. Some home improvement stores and trade associations keep lists of contractors who work in the community.
- Get more than one estimate. Ask the contractor for the names and phone numbers of past customers.
- Make sure the contractor you select is licensed and insured.
- Get the contract in writing.
- When possible pay by check or money order, not with cash.
- Always insist on a receipt.
- Immediately alert the Consumer Protection Unit of the Attorney General's Office if a contractor starts a project but does not return to complete it.
- Contact the Better Business Bureau for further help in choosing a contractor.
Last Modified: Friday, 11-Apr-2003 10:39:10