Storm Repair Scams

When an opportunity arises, the bad guys will be at your door.

Our summer monsoon storms often bring with them flooding, wind damage, other calamities that might require you to hire someone for home repairs. This is the prime season for unlicensed contractors, especially roofers, pool companies and landscapers, to come out of hiding, knocking on doors and offering their services. They say they've been working in your neighborhood, or they've noticed that something on your property is in need of repair, and that they have time to schedule you in. That's your first clue to be suspicious--most licensed businesses don't solicit customers door to door.

The most common construction services offered by these groups are roofing, small remodeling projects, air conditioning services, mold remediation and asphalt repair or paving services. Typically, these unlicensed repair people will not provide a written estimate. When the job is finished, they will often try to charge significantly more than you thought the job was going to cost, and they use pressure and scare tactics to get you to pay.

When storm damage occurs, it can be upsetting and stressful. Don't take the easy way out by hiring someone that might be working as a contractor illegally. The work they do may be of poor quality and overpriced. Arizona's Attorney General provides these tips when you need storm damage repairs.

1. Beware of contractors or repair workers, including roofers, pool companies and landscapers, who unexpectedly show up at your home after a storm.
2. Be wary of contractors who take a "quick look" around your property, then say you need a major repair.
3. Be cautious of contractors who claim they are working in the neighborhood and have time to fix your house or have leftover supplies from another job.
4. Get written estimates from several contractors.
5. Make sure the scope of the project, the price and any other material terms are in a written contract.
6. Request a list of references and check them before agreeing to hire a contractor.
7. Never allow yourself to be hurried into making a decision. Reputable contractors will not try to pressure you into hiring them.

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors advises that when monsoon storms begin they notice increased movement of these unwelcome individuals into Arizona. These unlicensed contractors come here from a variety of locations to take advantage of unsuspecting citizens.

Remember that "if a bid sounds too good to be true, it probably is." Any consumer who has been solicited by an individual purporting themselves to be a licensed contractor without providing their ROC license number on their bid or contract should be warned that they are potentially dealing with one of these out-of state transient groups.

Bottom Line: If you need repairs on your home as a result of storm damage, or any other improvement or repair to your home or property, it's best to hire a licensed contractor and check on the business through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.