Resources On Home Improvement Scams In Indiana

Resources in the state of Indiana warn of scam artists arriving in person at residents' homes. These door-to-door scams are loved by fake home improvement operators. Their main victims tend to be seniors, and individuals who live by themselves. Victims of weather-related natural disasters who need home restoration have also been known to be victims.

There are a few scams that are common among these door-to-door "home repairmen," such as claiming that the roof needs restoration or repair. Since this area is hard for residents to check thoroughly, the scam artist could easily con you into signing a contract, with his goal being to not disclose all of his charges. Be suspicious if someone claims to have just worked on a neighbor's house, and coincidentally has just enough material to do work on yours as well. The scammer may claim to offer you a discount good for that day only, since he happens to have all of the resources he needs at hand. Anytime someone arrives at your house and seems to be pressuring you into some kind of fast deal or agreement, be on guard.

If your home does need restoration, take your time finding a contractor. It is certainly suspicious for anyone to arrive at your home claiming to know what needs to be fixed. Never let anyone rush you into making decisions, and thoroughly check out any contractors that you do plan on using. Know beforehand how much you want to pay for the repairs, and exactly which repairs you need. Resources like the Indiana division of the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division can provide information on the possible contractors that you plan to use; you could also use your friends or relatives as resources for recommendations, or ask them about a particular contractor. Be wary of anyone who offers too low a bid for their work, as a too-cheap bid could be a sign of a scam artist or perhaps someone unqualified for the job. It is important to get bids in writing, and to note the details of the bid, such as how long the job will take. When choosing a contractor, you should pick one that is insured, licensed, and bonded. In Indiana the licensing requirements are different in each community, and you can determine these by checking with your county building department.

The state of Indiana requires that all home improvement jobs that cost more than $150 be put in writing. When signing a contract, make sure that it includes the job price, payment schedule, and a specific description of the job to be performed. Also, details like the estimated start and finish dates, the contractor's name and address, and the signature of the contractor should be present. Do not ever pay for an entire job upfront, and never put more than one third of the project down. It is smart to pay as certain goals throughout the project have been accomplished.

Check and see if a permit is required for the job that you need finished. If one is necessary, no one should begin work on the job until the permit has been issued. Make sure any subcontractors or employees have been paid before you issue final payment, and make sure you receive written proof of payment, as subcontractors or suppliers are capable of issuing a lien on your home until all bills have been paid. Make sure you keep all records and written warranties from the job in your possession - just in case.

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