BBB Tip of the Week: Knock, knock…who’s there?

Spring has sprung and just like beautiful tulips, door-to-door solicitors are blooming in neighborhoods too. As you try to catch up on property maintenance after a long and treacherous winter, contractors are eager to greet customers and jump into the seasonal rush of projects and business. Door-to-door scammers know this is an opportunity and are the dandelions of reputable business and poison ivy for consumers. Be on the lookout for scammers who know this is their opportunity to take advantage of you and compromise the reputations of local professionals.

Whether there are only simple tasks such as mowing the grass and weeding the flowerbed or there is a big project such as installing a sprinkler system or replacing windows, many consumers rely on professional help. Often these solicitors claim to have materials “left over” from a nearby job, and they insist on starting work immediately—leaving a homeowner no time to make an informed decision. However, a legitimate company would have no problem with a consumer wanting check references before agreeing to a service.

To keep from becoming a victim of a home improvement scam, homeowners should watch out for these red flags:

Door-to-door sales. In general, reputable contractors do not sell their services door-to-door. Consumers should be suspicious of people appearing at their front door and always ask for company photo identification and a business card along with a copy of their business license or solicitor permit if your local municipal codes require one.

Leftover supplies and materials. Professionals do not typically have leftovers from jobs. They plan ahead to buy what they need.

· One-time only prices or offers. Trustworthy contractors provide a quote before beginning a job and give the consumers an opportunity to shop around.

Deals that sound too good to be true. If the price sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Aggressive behavior. If the solicitor becomes aggressive or applies pressure to make a decision immediately, it is a red flag. Ask them to leave your property immediately if you are uncomfortable in any way emotionally or physically.

Requires payment upfront. All project details should be documented in writing with both business representative and consumer signatures. If work does require a down payment, all payment terms should be outlined and agreed to in advance. If they request cash up front in the form of cash, gift cards or wired funds it is very suspicious.

To find BBB Accredited contractors, turn to bbb.org and do research including the licenses required for their business, reviews and complaints. If you are approached by a door-to-door solicitor you are suspicious of report it to the bbb.org/scamtracker and review other reports in your area.