 Printer Friendly VersionProtect Yourself from Home Repair Fraud
Dear Consumer,
 Every year, thousands of Alabama citizens remodel and repair their homes. Most jobs are preformed professionally and to the satisfaction of the homeowner. While the majority of residential contractors operate their businesses honestly, my Consumer Affairs Section consistently, year after year, receives more home repair fraud complaints than any other type. The majority of home repair fraud complaints involve workers who accept money for repair jobs they never finish, or workers who fail to honor warranties on home improvement projects. By taking a few precautions before hiring someone to perform home repairs, this is a trend that can be reversed. By following the tips outlined on this site, you will be better protected against unscrupulous workers and their fraudulent scams.
While following these tips will better protect you from being taken advantage of, nothing can ever completely secure you from becoming a victim. If you do become a victim, remember, my office is here to help. Please do not hesitate to contact my Consumer Affairs Section or any of the other agencies listed. All of us stand ready to assist you.
Sincerely,
Troy King
Attorney General
Review the following list of suggestions BEFORE you hire a contractor:
- Verify the contractor's name, address, and phone number. Be wary of workers who give you pager numbers, or post office boxes, rather than street addresses.
- Request references on similar work performed by the contractor. Ask to see a job in progress, and ask for the name and number of a customer who had work done over a year ago.
- Make sure that your contractor has an occupational license from the Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board. (General contractors licensed prior to January 1, 1992, are exempt.)
- Obtain 2 or 3 bids. When comparing estimates, be sure each is based upon the same set of plans, specifications, and scope of work.
- Check with professional associations and licensing boards (see below) to verify the worker's record. Ask to see the contractor's pocket-sized license card.
- Check to see if the remodeler has a professional designation such as the Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), which is awarded upon completion of coursework in technical courses, business management, and contracts and law.
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Before your contractor begins work, you should...
- Ask to see proof of workman's comp (when applicable) and liability insurance.
- Agree on finance charges and make a payment schedule.
- Make sure you have guarantees and warranties in writing.
- Agree on start and finish dates and put the dates in writing.
- Make sure the contract is specific, including details about size, colors, materials, brands, and models.
Numbers you need to know:
- Home Builders Association of Alabama - 1.800.745.4222 or www.hbaa.org for information on how to contact your local home builders association.
- Home Builders Licensure Board - 1.800.304.0853 or www.hblb.state.al.us to find out if the remodeler you are dealing with is licensed.
- Attorney General's Consumer Hotline - 1.800.392.5658 or www.ago.alabama.gov if you have been the victim of home repair fraud.
- Better Business Bureau - 1.800.824.5274 or www.bbb.org to find out if any complaints have been filed against the remodeler with which you are dealing.
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