Archive: Business & Technology

Buffalo, NY (June 24, 2015)—Over the last month, Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Upstate New York received 30,419 (a 57% increase from last year at this time) inquiries regarding general contractors, roofing, paving and remodeling services. BBB is warning people to be on alert for paving and roofing ploys along with other door-to-door 'deals.' If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

This is the time of year when BBB gets reports that scammers are going door-to-door with "limited time discount offers." They may offer a deal to pave the driveway today, with "asphalt left over from a job in the neighborhood" at a cut-rate price. Or, someone may knock on your door and say they see a need for exterior repairs and offer to help. These business operators may be unlicensed, unskilled, uninsured or simply out to make a quick buck and quickly disappear.

"In BBB's experience, victims in these situations too often use cash and never see the contractor again," said Warren Clark, president of BBB serving Upstate New York. "Doing business at the front door can lead to so many problems. Whether it's home alarm systems, a new roof or paving a driveway - hundreds if not thousands of dollars are lost this time of year when people not take the time to search for a trustworthy business."

Complaints filed with BBB claim cash deposits were required for the special rate and contractors often began the work but would need more materials, promise to come back to finish the following day, and ultimately leave town. Consumers say they've had serious problems related to shoddy workmanship or substandard materials.  Any expected savings disappear if the job is botched and has to be redone by a competent contractor.

BBB offers a checklist to avoid problems associated with seasonal scams:

• Avoid high pressure sales. If the offer has a time limit to it, close the door. A legitimate business will give you time to check for background information and important license and registration information. You can call your city or town municipality or go online with New York State to confirm the contractor is in good standing.
• Do your research­. Before making any decision to hire a paving or any other kind of contractor, check BBB Business Reviews. Look for response to complaints if there are any on file. If they are a BBB Accredited Business they have agreed to resolve any complaints filed and uphold BBB Standards for Trust.
• Use the 3-3-3 rule. BBB recommends you obtain three estimates from reputable companies for your project, never pay up front and don't pay with cash. Using BBB's 3-3-3 rule can help you avoid financial troubles: Pay one third up front, one third half-way or milestone mark and one third at the completion of the work. BBB also recommends paying by credit card which offers more protection through your bank. Once your cash is gone, it's gone.
• Get a contract. Trustworthy businesses will draw up a contract with a description of materials, labor, start and completion dates, company name, local address and telephone number.
• You have three days to reconsider. Keep in mind that the three day cooling off rule applies to most home repair contracts. You may decide to cancel the contract by midnight of the third business day, including Saturdays. Make sure the contract contains details about how to cancel and send all correspondence by certified mail as proof that you followed the cancellation requirements.
• If you feel threatened, contact the police. You do not need to speak to peddlers and should report them to the local police department. Never let any door-to-door salesperson into your home.
• Report it. BBB's Scam Tracker allows people to report solicitations and find out more about other scams that are happening across the country.

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