LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Heavy snowfall and wind gusts are hitting Michigan this weekend. Since winter is just getting underway, it won’t be the last time we’re hit with severe weather.
That’s why Attorney General Dana Nessel is reminding residents to exercise caution with their finances.
MORE NEWS: Michigan DNR Pulls Swim Buoys as Season Wraps Up
“Scammers and price-gougers often arrive after severe weather events to take advantage of vehicle and homeowners, and the Attorney General offers tips and best practices to avoid compounding a weather disaster with financial disaster,” a press release said.
After disaster scams and building/remodeling scams are the most common.
Nessel’s office said to avoid falling victim to a scam, take the following steps:
Breathe!
Take some time to absorb what has happened, and don’t make any rash decisions before doing your homework. This is especially true if you are approached by anyone telling you they can fix your home right away – but only if you accept their “help” right now. Legitimate home repair contractors understand you need time to do your homework and check them out before you pay them anything or sign any contracts.
Talk to your homeowner’s insurance agent or company.
Carefully review your homeowner’s insurance policy to determine what damage may be covered and the amount of your deductible. Then be sure to contact your homeowner’s insurance agent or company, writing down questions you have and the answers that you are provided, along with a list of whom you talked to and when. Knowing what your insurance will cover will help you to determine how much you can spend on repairs, and prioritize repairs based on safety and need.
Do your homework.
Research before hiring a home repair contractor by following the tips found in the remainder of this Consumer Alert. Some of our tips include ensuring that the home repair contractor you’ve decided to hire is licensed, insured, well-regarded by your friends and neighbors, and you are comfortable with their complaint history (if one exists).
Get everything in writing, never pay in cash, and never pay in full upfront.
MORE NEWS: Detroit Wants Land Bank to Answer Tough Questions
Ensure that all promises, quotes, and expectations are put in writing in a contract that you will carefully review before signing. Paying for a home repair using a credit card is recommended because using credit cards provides you with added protection to dispute a charge if the repair is not completed. Finally, you should never pay for an entire home repair upfront! To ensure that all work is completed in accordance with the contract terms and your expectations, arrange to pay for only part of the work upfront and pay for the rest of the work once it is complete to your satisfaction.
For more assistance click here.