Attorney general alert: Springtime scams hit the streets
LITTLE ROCK — Scammers are taking to the streets to con homeowners, convincing unknowing and trusting Arkansans to make costly repairs that are not needed. Worse, these criminals may demand payment up front for promised work that they have no intention of completing.
“Many hard-working Arkansans look to make pricey updates and repairs to their homes during the spring season,” said Attorney General Rutledge in the press release. “But con artists are taking advantage of the warmer temperatures and looking to scam homeowners this time of year. Consumers should do their due diligence in hiring contractors and researching companies to ensure they are reputable.”
Rutledge released the following tips homeowners should consider before hiring a contractor:
• Think twice before hiring out-of-town or unknown contractors, especially those soliciting door-to-door.
• Question contractors who use terms like “special introductory offer,” “limited-time offer” or those who offer discounts to use your house as a “model home.”
• Do not fall for high-pressure tactics from contractors who want to discuss the price of the job later.
• Beware of those demanding payment in full before work is finished.
Arkansans should also insist on a written contract or agreement that includes the name, address and telephone number of the contractor and consider a payment plan that pays for a third of the work up front, a third to be paid while work is being done and the final third upon completion.
Consumers should also know that the Arkansas Home Solicitation Sales Act allows consumers to cancel any home-solicitation sale made within three days of purchase of the item or service.
Any contractor building, repairing or doing improvements to a home costing more than $2,000 is required to be licensed by the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. Contact the board at http://ACLB.Arkansas.gov or 501372-4661 to verify a contractor’s license, the date it was issued and whether any complaints have been filed against that contractor. Ask for recommendations from people you trust.
For more information and tips to avoid scams and other consumer-related issues, call the Arkansas Attorney General’s office at
800-482-8982, email consumer@ arkansasag.gov or visit http://ArkansasAG.gov.