Attorney General's News Release

March 23, 2005

Nixon warns Missourians to beware of spring home repair scams

Jefferson City, Mo. — Many homeowners consider springtime to mean the start of home repair and remodeling season. Unfortunately, some unscrupulous contractors see spring as the start of home repair ripoff season. Spring also brings the severe storm season, and damage from wind, rain or hail puts home repair in even higher demand.

Attorney General Jay Nixon is reminding consumers to be careful when they hire contractors to do work on their homes. Nixon's office in 2004 fielded nearly 1,400 consumer complaints relating to home repairs, many of which coincided with warmer weather or storm aftermath.

"This is the busiest time of the year for home repair scams, but there are some simple things Missourians can do to avoid problems with contractors doing repair or remodeling on their homes," Nixon says.

Nixon suggests homeowners do the following:

• Get all estimates, guarantees and work dates in writing.
• Get a second opinion whenever possible.
• Avoid large payments up front.
• Be suspicious of door-to-door solicitors, especially those offering free inspections.
• Check ID before letting any worker into your home.
• Check the credentials of companies: check their references; verify their number and address in the phone book; check for county or other local permits; check for complaints with the Attorney General or the Better Business Bureau; check for business registration with the Missouri Secretary of State.
• Walk away from offers that are good "now or never."
• Make payment only when the work meets the terms of your contract.

Nixon says unfortunately con artists often target the elderly, who often own their own homes. Many of these homes are older and do need repairs. There are plenty of good companies out there who can provide those repairs, Nixon says, and Missourians just need to follow these suggestions to find them.

Consumers who have questions or problems with a particular business can contact the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Hotline by calling 1-800-392-8222 or visiting www.ago.mo.gov.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818