Avoiding Home Improvement Scams (NY. USA)

Avoiding home improvement scams
“The Informed Consumer”
By Press Release
Bath Courier
Jun 07, 2012
Bath, NY —

With the arrival of spring many homeowners are beginning to contemplate home improvement projects. Whether you are planning a large scale renovation or a small improvement make sure you hire a trustworthy, reliable and skilled contractor to help you achieve your goals. Be wary of potential scam artists showing up at your door and offering discounted services. Remember, if an offer seems too good to be true, it’s likely a scam.
To ensure a pleasant home improvement experience, follow these helpful tips from the New York Department of State, Division of Consumer Protection:
First, ask your local building inspector if home improvement contractors are required to obtain a license. Certain counties require home improvement contractors to attain a license prior to performing work. In addition, all contractors, regardless of location must carry proof of insurance coverage.
Second, get written cost estimates. Get at least three bids in writing and compare based on the same warranty, specifications, labor and time.
Third, ask for references. Once you have narrowed down your potential list of contractors, make sure to ask for a list of local references and previous projects completed.
Fourth, insist on a detailed contract and get everything in writing. Never allow work to begin without a signed contract that includes start and completion dates, exact costs, a statement of work to be done and warranty information.
For more information about avoiding home improvement scams, or to  file a consumer complaint visit dos.ny.gov.
This article was sponsored by New York Department of State, AARP, the Harry and Jeannette Weinberg Center for Elder Abuse Prevention at the Hebrew Home at Riverdale, NY State Office for the Aging (SOFA) and the Free Community Papers of New York.

 SOURCE:     The Steuben Courier
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