Attorney General's News Release

May 2, 2008

Nixon urges Kansas City-area residents to watch for scams after high winds cause widespread damage

Jefferson City, Mo. - Attorney General Jay Nixon is warning residents of the Kansas City metropolitan area who are dealing with damage from high winds on May 1-2 to watch out for con artists.

Nixon says with any storm that leads to damage, evacuations or power outages, crooks will not be far behind. These thieves target hard-hit areas claiming to offer home-repair services. They often go door-to-door, offering quick services for consumers who may be in urgent need of repairs and supplies, whether it's a new roof, windows, carpet cleaning or other services.

Consumers need to know there are people out there who want to take advantage of their misfortune by promising services, collecting money and not following through on the job," Nixon said.

When hiring contractors, Nixon says consumers should be suspicious of anyone who offers services door-to-door; drives an unmarked vehicle or has out-of-state plates; demands full payment in advance; offers no physical address, just a phone or P.O. Box; uses a high-pressure sales technique; or has no I.D.

Nixon says consumers should follow these suggestions when hiring a home-repair company:

• Hire known or recommended companies. Check for complaints against a company with the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General's Web site and Consumer Complaint Hotline (number below);

• Get at least two estimates.

• Get all agreements in writing, including description of the job, completion dates and price; and

• Make full payment only when the terms of the contract are met.

If a home repair contractor doesn't offer a written agreement, the Attorney General encourages consumers to write their own agreement. Nixon's Web site, ago.mo.gov, offers a worksheet with guidelines for drawing up a home improvement contract. Consumers can report fraud and price gouging by filing a complaint online with the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at ago.mo.gov or by calling 1-800-392-8222.

Visit KNOW MO and search consumer complaints the MO AGO have received

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