HIRING A CONTRACTOR

The wave of SCAMMERS has begun.  Below are tips from the Attorney General to protect you from further damage when securing home repairs and hiring a contractor after the Great Flood of 2016.

1.  EDUCATE YOURSELF

• To find information or to report fraud, scam, or price gouging, visit www.AGJeffLandry.com or call Attorney General Jeff Landry’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-351-4889.

2.  NO BIG DOWN PAYMENTS

• Do not agree to a large down payment!
• If possible, pay for the materials yourself at a supply store & have them delivered directly to your home.
• Always get the contract and any changes in writing and make sure that both parties sign.
• Any changes should be initialed by both parties.
• Always pay by a traceable method, i.e. check or money order, and make it payable to the company, not the individual.
• You should also keep all receipts.

3.  GET A GUARANTEE

• Always get the contract and any changes in writing and make sure that both parties sign.
• Any changes should be initialed by both parties.

4.  PAYMENT METHODS

• Always pay by a traceable method, i.e. check or money order, and make it payable to the company, not the individual.
• You should also keep all receipts.

5.  THREE BIDS

• Get at least 3 itemized bids from contractors.
• Verify that they are licensed through the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors at www.lslbc.louisiana.gov.

6.  ID & PROOF OF INSURANCE, PLEASE?

• You should always require the contractor show you identification & proof of insurance.
• Take a picture of the ID and a selfie with the contractor.
• For further verification, you can confirm with the insurer.

Source of Above Tips:   https://www.martindale.com/natural-resources-law/article__2234870.htm