Protect Yourself From Home Repair Fraud*

The best way Florida 's senior citizens can protect themselves from becoming victims of home repair fraud and other crimes is to be careful, informed and prepared.

Before you agree to or sign any contract, including one for financing, have your lawyer review and explain the terms. If you do not have a lawyer, call The Florida Bar or your local legal services organization and ask for a list of those who specialize in construction or contracts. You may also find a good lawyer through a family member or trusted adviser.

After a hurricane or other disaster, home repair fraud, including price gouging against Florida 's elderly, increases significantly.

An occupational license is NOT a construction license. It is a business registration only.

Never 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.

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.

Protect yourself from liens against your home. If your home repair costs over $2,500, 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.

Some people posing as home repair specialists are simply con artists looking for easy access and easy money. For your safety, do NOT open your door, step outside, or be distracted.

IMPORTANT TIPS

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

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

•  NEVER be pressured into making hasty decisions.

•  NEVER accept an offer to take you to the bank to withdraw money for any reason

•  Take photos of the damage.

•  Get emergency repairs done.

•  Keep all receipts for insurance purposes.

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

•  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.

•  If you suspect anything is wrong, report it to the authorities immediately.

IMPORTANT CONTACTS

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

Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation:

1 - (850) - 487-1395

Florida Attorney General's Office - Price Gouging Hotline;

•  (800) - 646-0444

Senior vs. Crime Project: 1- (800) - 203-3099

Insurance Information: 1- (800) - 342-2762

Local Sheriff's Office, Police Department or State Attorney (to report fraud or a crime)

Florida Department of Elder Affairs, Elder Helpline; 1 - (800) - 963-5337

The Florida Bar: 1 - (800) - 342-8011 or a local legal services organization

Elder Abuse Hotline: 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-(800)-962-2873

*This consumer information is provided by Triad to assist Florida 's senior citizens from becoming victims of home repair fraud and not intended as a substitute for legal advice.