Traveling Contractor Scams Tip Sheet

 

There are groups of transient criminals that pose as door-to-door home repair contractors who rip off homeowners with painting, roofing, and paving scams. Not every door-to-door solicitor or family-owned business operates in this way; however, the Contractors State License Board urges consumers to be wary and to watch for any of these “red flags.”

Indicators:

• Often related by family and solicit door-to-door;

• Come across as friendly, but can use high-pressure or scare tactics;

• Are reluctant to give an up-front price or provide a written contract;

• Demand payments in cash;

• Immediately cash checks (sometimes changing the amount before cashing);

• Drive customized newer vehicles with out-of-state license plates;

• Use toll-free (800) telephone numbers instead of local numbers;

• Have post office boxes or suite numbers instead of actual street addresses;

• Target the vulnerable, like elderly or recent immigrants; and

• Offer complimentary inspections and then offer to fix “problems.”

 

Examples of Scams:

• Say they have leftover material at a cheap price from another job;

• What they claim is a “sealant” is actually a useless, watery liquid that they spray on roofs, fences, or driveways;

• Push a few new wood shakes under old roofing shakes and apply useless oil.

• Charge by the can for painting and then exaggerate the amount they say was used.

 

Tips to Avoid Being Scammed:

• Watch out for door-to-door solicitations—especially when they want to start work immediately

• Be aware that your contractor must notify you of your right to cancel within three days of signing a contract

• Be a good neighbor and report any suspicious home improvement activity if your neighbor is elderly or otherwise vulnerable