It is an unfortunate fact that unscrupulous individuals will try and make a profit on another’s misfortune. Don’t let these individuals take advantage of you during this vulnerable time.
Before you hire a contractor or sign any documents for repairs, the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) offers the following basic advice:
- Don’t rush into repairs, no matter how badly they are needed; Get at least three bids.
- Don’t hire the first contractor who comes along; Watch out for door-to-door offers of repair services and flyers or business cards that are left on your doorstep
- Ask friends, family and associates for recommendations about contractors that they have hired; Never hand over a cash deposit
- Even for the smallest job, get proof that the person you are dealing with has a contractor’s license for the type of work that needs to be done
- Get a written contract that details every aspect of the work to be done.
The CSLB recommends that you ask to see the contractor’s “Pocket License,” along with other identification. Get the contractor’s license number and check it out on the Internet at: www.cslb.ca.gov or call the CSLB toll-free automated telephone number at 1-800-321-CSLB (2752) to verify that the license is valid.
If you’re approached about participating in an insurance fraud scam, remember that fraud is a felony and could result in a prison sentence. Insurance coverage may also be voided if it’s discovered the policyholder has falsified the claim.
For more information on contracting and insurance fraud, go to these links:
The National Insurance Crime Bureau Webpage at: https://www.nicb.org Remodeling Contractor Tips at: www.remodelingcontractortips.com