PHOENIX — First come the storms, then comes the storm repair. But consumers must be aware of who shows up at your door, because not everyone is looking to help you.
Here are some pieces of advice Arizonans can follow to help avoid monsoon home-repair scams:
- If you didn't call or make an appointment with a contractor, don't open the door for someone you don't know.
- Don't feel pressured or hurried into the services of a door-to-door salesperson.
- Check the Arizona Registrar of Contractors to make sure the contractor you are looking to work with is licensed.
- Request a list of references from the business or contractor.
- Shop around to get multiple estimates.
- Ask for a written, itemized contract with all associated costs.
- Never pay the whole cost up front! Pay portions of the cost based on completion stages of the project.
If you think you have been targeted by a home repair scammer or other fraud, contact the Arizona Attorney General's office or the Registrar of Contractors.
