Protect Yourself from Home Repair Fraud

Citizens can protect themselves from becoming victims of home repair fraud and other crimes by being careful, better informed, and prepared. This is especially important for people who need home repair work following a catastrophic event. It requires following a few simple rules.

1. Before you agree to or sign any contract, including one for financing, have your attorney review and explain the terms. If you don't have an attorney, you may contact the Florida Bar or your local legal services organization and request a list of those who specialize in construction or contracts.

2. After a hurricane or other disaster, home repair fraud, including price gouging, increases significantly. Especially for those who are elderly and targeted by con artists.

3. Remember that an occupational license is NOT a construction license. It is a business registration only.

4. Be careful not to fall for phone or door-to-door offers of free estimates, home inspections, or "special deals" of any kind. Very few, if any legitimate contractors do this, especially after a storm.

5. Never pay cash or pay for unfinished work. Paying by check or money order provides a written record. If a contractor wants money in advance, you should consider paying the material supplier directly.

6. Protect yourself from liens against your home. If the home repair costs over $2,500.00, make sure your contract states that the contractor will obtain notarized, written releases of lien from all subcontractors and suppliers BEFORE you will pay each payment.

7. For your own safety, do not open your door, step outside, or be distracted if someone posing as a home repair specialist comes to your door. They are often con artists who are looking for easy access and easy money and you may become one of their targets.

8. Compare estimates carefully; the lowest bid/price is not always the best one.

9. Never agree to get your own permits; that will make you directly responsible for everything.

10. Never be pressured into making hasty decisions.

11. Never accept an offer to take you to the bank to withdraw money for any reason.

12. Take photos of the damage, as soon as possible. Get emergency repairs done and keep all receipts for insurance purposes.

13. Make sure that you know what damages are ( or are not) covered by your homeowner's policy.

14. Remember that an unlicensed handyman cannot legally perform any work valued at more than $1,000 for the entire job. Seek the advice of your local government's building department first.

15. If you suspect anything is wrong, report it to the authorities immediately. Some contact numbers are as follows:

  Florida Attorney General's Office - Price Gouging Hotline: (800) 646-0444

  Local City or County Building Departments: (Government section of phone book)

  Insurance Information: (800) 342-2762

  Florida Dept. of Elder Affairs: (800) 963-5337

  Florida Bar: (800) 342-8011

  Elder Abuse Hotline: (800) 962-2873

(The above information is courtesy of the Florida Triad to provide consumer information and prevent Florida 's citizenry from becoming victims of home repair fraud)