Consumer Tips for Tornado-Affected Homeowners

Often times after a natural storm disaster hits scam artists prey on victims, particularly those who own homes that are in need of repairs.  Because homeowners are tired, frustrated or desperate, they become vulnerable and let down their guard.  By following these simple but important steps, consumers can avoid becoming a victim of a scam:

1.      Do not hire an out-of-state contractor unless you verify that the contractor is licensed and insured to do business in the State of Massachusetts.

2.      Never hire a contractor “on the spot.” 

3.      Ask your family, friends and neighbors for referrals. 

4.       Always check the license of a home improvement contractor and the history of complaints against the business before hiring the contractor.  Visit the MA Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation’s website at http://db.state.ma.us/homeimprovement/licenseelist.asp or call 1-888-283-3757.  To verify the license of an electrician, plumber or sheet metal worker contact the MA Division of Professional Licensure at www.mass.gov/dpl or call 1-617-727-7406. The Mayor’s Office of Consumer Information (MOCI)* may also assist in obtaining this information if you do not have a telephone or internet access.

5.      Ask for three reference names and addresses and interview them in person.  Look at the quality of the work and ask the homeowner about his/her experience with the contractor (i.e. was the job performed in a timely manner and was the contractor responsive to calls and concerns).

6.      Make sure to request a written contract that stipulates all of the terms and conditions of the agreement (date, contractor’s name, address and license number, contract price, date of commencement and completion, materials to be used and payment schedule of one-third (beginning), one-third (mid-way) and final one-third upon completion and satisfaction of job.  The contract should include a three-day rescission clause and should be signed by you and the contractor.  To request a sample contract, call the MOCI.

7.      Be sure the contractor is insured and ask to see the insurance card.  Call the insurance company or agent to confirm that the contractor’s policy is in effect.

8.      Never pull your own permit.  Have the contractor pull the permit in his name and ask to see it before commencement of the work.  If you pull the permit in your name, you may not be eligible for the Guaranty Fund. 

9.      Never pay in cash or make a check payable to an individual (make it out to the business name).

10.  Finally be sure to read the contract before signing it and never give into pressure!

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Courtesy of:

 Mayor’s Office of Consumer Information

 Working in Cooperation with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office

 Serving residents of Hampden County to educate on consumer rights  and mediate consumer complaints

City Hall ▫ 36 Court Street ▫ Room 315 ▫ Springfield, MA  01103-1699 ▫ (413) 787-6437 www.springfieldcityhall.com ▫ email: moci@springfieldcityhall.com