By By The Valley Independent,
February 12, 2010
Washington County consumers need to be cautious of potential roofing and repair scams, District Attorney Steve Toprani warned.
Often following damaging storms, criminals known as "storm chasers" go door-to-door looking for unsolicited business as a way to scam the public. Cases of "storm chasers" have been reported in many states, particularly following major weather events such as blizzards and tornados.
"The recent blizzard snowfall exposes county residents to more than just dangerous weather conditions," Toprani said in a released statement. "Unethical and designing individuals may use the immediate need for home repairs as a way to scam our county's residents. Residents scammed by storm chasers face more than embarrassment. The financial loss can be devastating.
"For those over the age 60, we will use the recourses of the Elder Abuse Unit to investigate and prosecute these scams."
Generally, the scam operates as "out of town" handymen rent local office space or register local business phone numbers, usually through cell phone providers, and begin to target susceptible victims. Scammers canvass neighborhoods looking for visible signs of property damage, fallen trees and damaged roofs.
The scammers will then approach the home owners and offer discount or prompt repairs that are never completed or completed in a substandard manor.
The scammers rarely provide business information or a contract for the work.
As with any major home repair, Toprani encourages home owners to research contractors and repair businesses carefully by checking references. Consumers in Pennsylvania are able to verify contractor registration with the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office by calling the toll-free hotline at 1-888-520-6680.
Local residents may contact the chamber of commerce or Better Business Bureau.
Toprani also suggests obtaining more than one detailed estimate with written proof of business insurances and warranties and demanding that repair contracts be in writing.
Toprani asks anyone scammed to contact the District Attorney's Office at (724) 228-6790.
SOURCE: The Pittsburgh Live
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