BBB: Spring scams are in full bloom

Spring provides new opportunities for scammers to blossom. The Better Business Bureau says warm weather is the perfect environment for con artists to get inside your home and wallet.

“Door-to-door and online scammers will capitalize on anything to do with people’s home improvement and repair projects,” said Steve J. Bernas, BBB president and CEO. “Fake utility reps and security system impostors will attempt to deceive people. Spring scam losses can devastate your finances, so please be on the lookout. Just this past weekend, we had strong storms packing over 60 mph winds and causing widespread damage.”

Shoddy storm damage repair is a lucrative con. The scammers could contact you via text or email, phone, online, or even in person. Damage from the Chicago and northern Illinois winter and the freeze-thaw cycle may necessitate various repairs. Warmer weather can bring intense storms with high winds and heavy rains.

In the latest Scam Tracker Risk Report, home improvement scams ranked No. 5 on BBB’s list of scams posing the most significant risk to consumers. The report also indicates home improvement scams were the No. 3 riskiest scam for the 65-and-older consumer group.

“Drywall, paint jobs, plumbing, roofing, electric, HVAC service, and other home improvement projects all have scam potential,” Bernas said.

Consumers can find companies they can trust at BBB.org, a free service where you can research a business’ rating and reviews before you hire.

To help people spot the red flags of a spring scam, the BBB advises being alert to several key indicators:

• Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics, up-front fees, and “handshake” deals. Also, use additional caution if someone reaches out to you unsolicited, especially if they knock on your door.

• Anyone pressuring you to pay or sign a contract without allowing you to do your due diligence on BBB.org and other sources is someone you most likely would not want to do business with.

• Get multiple estimates in writing.

• Get a written contract with the price, materials, and timeline detailed. Illinois law requires a written contract for all projects costing $1,000 or more.

• Never allow any strangers into your house unless you have vetted the company. For safety, always alert neighbors, family, or friends if you have scheduled work to be done inside your home.

If you have spotted a scam, even if you did not lose money, report it to BBB.org/ScamTracker.