Home damaged in snow storm? BBB warns of scam contractors

Many Texas homes were not built for the snow and freezing temperatures that we have experienced this week.  That means you may be left needing some repairs.

But before you hire one, the Better Business Bureau warns every time we have a major weather event, it receives complaints about scammers. They pose as contractors but take your money and run or leave you with shoddy, unfinished work.

BBB warns that scammers surface after storms

What they're saying:

"We hear people pay several thousand dollars.  Usually, if it's a scam, they will pay that money upfront. Then the scammer will not return at all to do the job, take the money and go. Or in some cases, they’ll enter the home and steal certain items as well, so it can really be a very scary situation," said Leah Napoliello of the Better Business Bureau.

What we know:

Sometimes they’ll come from out of town just to take advantage of people.

The BBB says these are the red flags for scam contractors:

  • Putting pressure on you to hire them right away,
  • Asking for full payment upfront,
  • And going door-to-door looking for business.

"You want to watch out for anyone putting high pressure on you.  If they come to your door and want you to allow them into your homes to do repair work on the spot.  If they come to your door, and you haven’t vetted them, you don’t know much about this contractor.  But don’t hire them on the spot, don’t give them any money or sign anything they may present to you without knowing anything about this individual," explained Napoliello. 

Steps to check out a contractor

What you can do:

Here are tips to check out a contractor before you hire one:

  • File a claim with your insurance first. The insurer will verify the repairs that are needed.
  • For burst pipes, you can check out a plumber's license with the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners.
  • You can check other specialist contractors' licenses with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
  • Texas does not require general contractors to be licensed, but you can verify that they're bonded with the Texas Department of Insurance.
  • Check for complaints with the Better Business Bureau and the state Attorney General.
  • And talk to other customers about their experience.
  • As for payment, the BBB recommends paying one-third up front, one-third midway through the project, and the rest when the project is completed to your satisfaction.

The Source: Information in this article is from the Better Business Bureau and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

Sullivan's Smart SenseNewsHoustonConsumer