A state Division of Consumer Affairs official says the recent flooding in northern Wisconsin likely will also bring out a group of con artists selling cheap repairs door-to-door.
Department of Ag, Trade and Consumer Protection's Division head Frank Frassetto says look our for contractors whose offer doesn't seem right...
"...there are folks known as storm chasers and they look for bad weather that has impacted communities in a significant way. And what they will do they will go door-to-door and try to gin up some business by playing on people's emotions after there has been some property damage...."
These fly-by-nighters approach people vulnerable after a loss and try to get them to commit cash up front for repairs that never get done...
"...they'll try to get these people a deal that is way too good to be true, ask for money up front. They're pretty aggressive in their tactics and then they end up walking away with your money and not doing any of the work...."
Frassetto says hire local contractors and hire a contractor based on referrals. He says get a lien waiver from anyone doing home repairs. This is smart, he says, in case the person doesn't pay a supplier or worker. A lien could be placed on your property. He says a written contract spells out exactly what is to be done.
More information is on theDATCP website.
