BBB alert: Extreme winter weather an opportunity for scammers

Extreme weather is the perfect storm for scams. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns the public to be extra cautious heading into winter this Sunday.

“Scammers see Chicago being hit with severe cold, snow, and wind early in December as an opportunity,” said Steve J. Bernas, BBB president and CEO. “Fraudsters hope homeowners are too busy with holiday distractions to properly investigate contractors before they are hired.”

Scammers will utilize Chicago’s weather as an excuse to knock on homeowners’ doors unsolicited and offer their expert repair services on the spot. They often claim they were working in the area on another house with storm-related damage, and see that there is a problem with your roof. They say it could be serious and needs to be addressed immediately. Be on high alert if they demand cash up front.

Homeowners can expect scam attempts regarding routine household maintenance throughout the winter.

“Scammers are quick to offer energy audits, winter insulation, snow removal, and furnace inspections this time of year,” Bernas said. “Be wary of anyone calling or showing up at your door unsolicited. Fraudsters often demand cash up front, or try to sign you up for something right then.

“Often, this is an attempt to steal your money, identity, and personal possessions. These schemes could even damage your home. Reject the offer and leave scammers out in the cold.”

For any winter services, always check a company’s background, starting first with BBB.org.

Another winter scam is especially devious. Using freezing temperatures as their hook, con artists will masquerade as representatives from a utility company and demand money for a “supposed” past-due bill. Utility companies don’t work this way.

Illinois utility companies are prohibited from shutting off gas or electric service when it is the only source of heating and the temperature forecast for the next 24 hours is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Contact your utility company directly if you are concerned about an overdue bill. Don’t look online for the phone number. Always call the customer service number on your bill when dealing with any utility. That way, you are sure you are dealing with the actual utility.

BBB has tips for finding reputable contractors for winter maintenance or repair. Avoid the risk of a scam by following these key measures:

• Don’t let a contractor push you. High pressure could be a red flag.

• Always check their ratings and reviews at BBB.org

• Ask for references.

• Never pay cash up front or sign a contract until you have time to review the company.

• Illinois state law requires a contract for any project costing more than $1,000.

• Search online for the contractor’s name and the word “spam.”

• Be on high alert if someone unsolicited reaches out to you.

• Pay bills with a credit card. That provides much more protection than a debit card.

• Never let anyone inside your home without thoroughly checking their background and discussing it with trusted neighbors or family. For extra safety, notify someone in advance that a contractor will be at your home on the date/time.

If you’ve encountered a scam, report it to BBB Scam Tracker. Sign up for BBB’s free consumer newsletter, BBB Edge, at BBB.org/ChicagoBuzz. Follow @ChicagoBBB on social media. Look for the BBB Seal, the Sign of a Better Business.