Home Repair Scams: How Seniors Can Protect Themselves

Common Tactics Used by Scammers

1. Unsolicited Offers: Scammers often approach homeowners uninvited, claiming they're in the neighborhood and noticed your home needs repairs. They may offer discounted rates due to leftover materials from another job.

2. High-Pressure Sales: They create a sense of urgency, insisting that immediate repairs are necessary to prevent further damage, pressuring you to make quick decisions without proper consideration.

3. Upfront Payments: Demanding full or substantial payment before starting work is a red flag. Once paid, these individuals may disappear without completing the job.

4. Verbal Agreements: Relying solely on verbal promises without a written contract can lead to misunderstandings and exploitation.

Real-Life Examples

• Driveway Repair Scam: An 80-year-old homeowner in Portsmouth, Virginia, paid $1,000 to a contractor who promised a long-lasting driveway fix. The applied substance washed away within 24 hours, leaving her house covered in white powder. The contractor refused to refund her money.

  The Sun

   

• Bitumen Bandits: In Adelaide, Australia, unlicensed traders known as "bitumen bandits" offered substandard work to homes and businesses. One business was scammed out of $15,000 for poor-quality work.

  Adelaide Now

   

Tips to Avoid Home Repair Scams

1. Research Contractors: Before hiring, ask for recommendations from friends or family. Check that the companies have proper licenses and insurance. Look up reviews and ratings on reputable websites.

   Consumer FTC

    

2. Get Multiple Estimates: Obtain at least three written estimates to compare prices and services. This helps ensure you're getting a fair deal.

   Consumer FTC

    

3. Insist on a Written Contract: Ensure all details, including the scope of work, materials, timeline, and payment schedule, are documented. Review the contract thoroughly before signing.

   Consumer FTC

    

4. Avoid Upfront Payments: Be cautious of contractors who demand large upfront payments. A reasonable down payment is standard, but full payment should be made only after satisfactory completion of the work.

   Consumer FTC

    

5. Verify Credentials: Ask for the contractor's license number and proof of insurance. Confirm these with local licensing authorities.

   AARP

    

6. Be Wary of Door-to-Door Solicitations: Legitimate contractors rarely solicit business by going door-to-door. If approached, take time to research the company before making any decisions.

   AARP

    

Reporting Suspected Scams

If you believe you've been targeted or victimized by a home repair scam:

• Contact Local Authorities: Report the incident to your local police department.

• File a Complaint with Consumer Protection Agencies: Reach out to your state's consumer protection office or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ftc.gov/complaint.

• Notify the Better Business Bureau (BBB): File a complaint through the BBB to alert others and help prevent future scams.

Staying informed and vigilant is crucial in protecting yourself from home repair scams. By following the tips outlined above and trusting your instincts, you can safeguard your finances and ensure your home receives the quality care it deserves.