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