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Ohioans Warned About Fraudulent Contractors
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Attorney General Jim Petro is reminding Ohioans to be smart consumers when hiring a contractor to clean up after flooding or storm damage. "It's unfortunate that fraudulent contractors prey on people who desperately need their services," Petro says. "So protect yourself by doing your homework before you hire one, and if the offer for service sounds to good to be true, remember, it probably is."Here are some tips from Petro's Consumer Protection Section to help protect against becoming a victim of a fraudulent contractor:Find out all you can about the contractor. Identify the contractor's name, address and phone number before signing any contracts. Contractors with local permanent addresses will be easier to contact should there be any problems.Get estimates. Get detailed written estimates from more than one contractor.Check references. A reputable contractor will not hesitate to provide references from past clients.Check the complaint history. Use the Attorney General's Office or the local Better Business Bureau.Answers to the following questions should be written into the contract:When will work begin?How long will it take?What type, grade and quality materials will be used?How much will it cost, including labor and materials?Will subcontractors be used?What guarantees, refund policies or warranties will be given?Will the contractor obtain a license and permits if needed?Never sign or initial any contract until you understand its purpose and all the blanks are filled in, including the answers to the above questions. The contract also should include a statement that your written approval is required for any changes to the original contract, include payment information such as a required deposit before work begins. The contract should be dated and signed by the contractor, and you should insist on getting a copy of every document you sign or initial.Before paying any bill, get a sworn statement that all materials have been paid for and that all subcontractors have been paid. This can protect you from liens that may be placed on your property if suppliers and subcontractors are not paid.Never sign over your insurance check to a contractor. Instead, arrange with your bank for a Certificate of Completion. The bank will pay the contractor for each completed stage of the job only after you have given permission.Consumers who feel they have become a victim of a fraudulent contractor should call their local police or sheriff's office immediately. Consumers can also file a complaint with their local Better Business Bureau and Petro's Consumer Protection Section by phone at (800) 282-0515."