If you receive a brochure that offers expensive home improvement services at an unusually low price, be careful. This is a favorite trick of dishonest home repair firms. Some scammers will mail an offer for a free inspection that results in expensive repairs you don’t need. Others will just show up at your home and try to gain access by posing as utility repairmen or home insulation inspectors. They may flash something that looks like an identification card to convince you to let them enter or offer to do the work on the spot. However, when they leave, you may be left with a large bill and a faulty repair job.
Home Improvement and Home Repair Fraud
Elderly financial fraud is rampant and consumers should research before signing contracts or hiring home renovators. Watch to learn more.
Scammers take payments and only do a fraction of the promised work. Watch to learn more about home repair scams.
Protect Yourself From Home Improvement Fraud
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Get estimates first
Get several estimates for every repair job and compare the prices and terms.
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Ask about charges
Ask if there is a charge for an estimate before agreeing to let the repair person or company inspect your home.
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Know your salesperson's name
Make sure you know your salesperson’s name and the name and address of the company he or she represents.
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Check Better Business Bureau
Contact your local Better Business Bureau to check out the company’s reputation before you authorize any work or pay any money.
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Never pay with cash
Always pay for home improvement work with a check or money order, never with cash.
Have You Witnessed This Scam?
If you’ve been affected by a home improvement scheme or home repair scam, and the U.S. Mail® has been used in any way, we want to help. Please report the crime.
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