Home Improvement Scams


Home improvement scams on the way as cooler season approaches

ROC urges Arizonans to do their homework before hiring a contractor

[PHOENIX ARIZONA] –The Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) is alerting homeowners to the arrival of the most prevalent home improvement and repair scam season. The ROC warns residents that the mild fall and winter weather in central and southern Arizona is a magnet for out-of-state criminal transient contractors offering ‘good deals’ on jobs such as roofing, driveway sealing, painting and various remodeling services.

“Unsuspecting homeowners, particularly seniors, often are approached door-to-door by scam artists looking to make a quick profit as they work their way through neighborhoods,” says ROC Director Israel G. Torres. “These so-called contractors are usually very friendly, gain trust easily, and claim that they were just in the neighborhood and have a great price on left-over materials. Many times they will ask for full or cash payment before completing the work, which is usually a sign that something is not right.”

Anyone who performs residential or commercial construction, remodeling or repair work must have a contractor license if the job costs $750 or more in materials, labor and other costs or if a building permit is required. Consumers should check with the ROC to make sure the person they hire is properly licensed.

The ROC offers the following tips to homeowners seeking home repairs or remodeling:

Make sure the individual has an Arizona contractor license that is in good standing. To check a license, call 602-542-1525 or toll-free statewide outside Maricopa County at 888-271-9286 or visit www.azroc.gov.

Ask the contractor for references.

Plan your project carefully and prepare detailed plans if necessary.

Get at least three detailed, clearly written bids.

Ask the contractor what problems may come up during the course of the project.

Get a written contract.

Make sure you understand the terms of the contract before signing it.

Do not pay in full prior to the work being completed and never pay in cash.

Put all project changes in writing.

Ask questions if you are unclear about the work being done.

To report possible fraudulent home improvement activities or if someone has approached you door-to-door, contact the ROC at 602-542-1525 or toll-free outside Maricopa County at 888-271-9286 or visit www.azroc.gov.

The ROC encourages homeowners to check the company’s license status and to report the company to the agency if a scam is suspected.

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