Spring is the time of year when homeowners are interested in getting work done on their homes. Unfortunately, it also brings some unsavoury characters out who are looking to take advantage of people by running door-to-door renovation scams.
How to Avoid Door-to-Door Renovation Scams
Even if you are planning to have some work done this spring, keep in mind that there are things you can to do avoid being taken advantage of. Here are some tips to help lower the risk that you will be one of the consumers who ends up being parted from his or her money this year.
1. Find out exactly who you are doing business with before work starts.
Make a point of checking out the company on the Better Business Bureau website. You can also do an online search for the company name and the word “scam” to see if anything pops up, especially on social media sites like Twitter and Facebook. Customers that were not pleased with the service they received from a business are more likely to post something about it online, and the Internet is a good source of information about providers.
2. Be wary if you are told that the price being offered is “for today only” or a “once in a lifetime deal.”
This type of language should be a red flag that you may be dealing with a scam artist. A legitimate business will present an offer and give you time to look it over and consider it. Even if you get a good deal from someone soliciting business on a door-to-door basis, do get multiple quotes from contractors before you make your choice. The cheapest price rarely ends up being the best deal for you.
3. Do not deal with a company that is not prepared to give you a written contract.
You should get a copy of a written agreement. It will include details like the work that is being performed, the types of materials that will be used, and the total price. If the company is unwilling or unable to give you a written contract, then it’s not the type of business that you should be dealing with.
You can have confidence in George Kent Home Improvements Ltd. We have been serving Toronto and the GTA since 1949 and have built a reputation for quality work during that time. Contact us for your roofing, siding, replacement windows, doors and insulation needs.
