For nearly 50 years I’ve listened to people on radio, TV and the internet who got burned by lying, cheating contractors.
Now I’m putting those complaints to good use.
I’ve cataloged the 8 most common mistakes victims make. Virtually every contractor complaint I hear comes back to one or more of these 8. Avoid them and you’re far less likely to get ripped off.
1. “Who’s the cheapest?”
Picking a contractor on price alone. Cheap is almost always a bad value, because they cut corners.
2. “Who can start the soonest?”
There’s usually a reason a contractor can fit you right in. Often they’re lying about starting right away just to get your money up front.
3. “They knocked on my door!”
Most rip-offs start when someone comes to your door or messages you on social media. Not every solicitor is crooked, but the odds of getting scammed go up when they contact you.
4. “They’ll work with my insurance company.”
Beware of “Don’t worry, I’ll work it all out with your insurance company.” Insurers often cut corners to save money. You don’t want a contractor who just agrees with the adjuster to land the job.
You want one who will spell out, in writing, exactly what you need before you talk to the adjuster. Then compare proposals and make sure you’re made whole.
5. “I know a guy.”
Someone always knows someone who’ll do it “off the books” for less. Funny how people who want an honest job will hire someone who’s cheating the system. Don’t be surprised when they cheat you, too.
6. The traveler
I see it all the time, especially with roofers. They show up after a storm with out-of-state plates and knock on doors. They’re here until they get your money. Sometimes they stick around to do the work, sometimes they don’t. Warranties? Don’t count on them.
7. “They need money up front.”
Ask yourself why. They can’t get credit for materials? Can’t manage cash flow? Almost every rip-off starts with money up front. Once you’ve paid a lot, you have very little recourse if the work is bad or the contractor disappears.
8. They’re not on ReferralList.com
I’ve poured my heart and soul into this list. We do extensive background checks and continually monitor members for honesty, quality and ethics.
Got a consumer problem? Call 303-MARTINO or get free help at tommartino.com/get-help/