PPD: Great tips for dealing with contractors. Especially when we are currently a scammers target.
The Pasadena Police Department has been made aware that some contractors are already attempting to scam tornado victims. While most contractors are well-intentioned and fair, some use a catastrophic event to scam people who the event itself has already victimized. We also understand that the most vulnerable people at this time are our elderly residents, and please check on them and help them navigate through this difficult time. If you are receiving calls, text messages, emails, knocks at your door, or any other form of solicitation from a contractor, please verify their information and don't feel obligated or compelled to select them as your contractor. Here are more tips when searching for a contractor:
***Get everything in writing. Cost, work to be done, time schedules, guarantees, payment schedules, and other expectations should be detailed.
***Get more than one estimate.
***Demand references and verify them.
***Ask to see the contractor's driver's license and write down the license number and their vehicle's license plate number.
***Never sign a contract with blanks; unacceptable terms can be added later.
***Never pay a contractor in full or sign a completion certificate until the work is finished, and ensure reconstruction is up to the current code.
***Make sure you review and understand all documents sent to your insurance carrier.
***Never let a contractor pressure you into hiring them.
***Never let a contractor interpret the insurance policy language.
***Never let a contractor discourage you from contacting your insurance company.
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