Knowledge Base

Don’t Get Scammed

Follow these tips to avoid being the next victim of a scammer when hiring a contractor: 

• Have an insurance company evaluate damage before arranging repairs to ensure that the work will be covered under a policy 

• Get at least three written, itemized estimates on bids or repairs; 

• Watch out for unsolicited offers or contractors claiming to perform repairs at a discount with leftover supplies from another job 

• Research a company and its reputation—look for references online, or ask a friend 

• Check to see if a company is properly licensed, insured and if there are any consumer complaints filed against a licensed contractor at MyFloridaLicense.com or by calling the Florida Attorney General’s Office at 1(866) 9NO-SCAM (966-7226). Disaster Fraud Hotline 866-720-5721.

• Make sure a contractor bonded and verified with a bonding agency 

• Read the entire contract, including the fine print, before signing to ensure it includes the required buyer’s right to cancel language. 

• Never pay the full amount of a repair expense upfront and hesitate before providing large deposits; and 

• Do not sign a certificate of completion or make final payment until satisfied with the work performed. 

Visit: www.MyFloridaLegal.com for more information 

Updated 10/7/2024 11:54 PM
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