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Media > Newsletters > Consumer Advocate > March 2011 > Flood victims: be wary of unscrupulous home improvement contractors

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Flood victims: be wary of unscrupulous home improvement contractors

3/24/2011

As Ohioans deal with the effects of major floods, they should be wary of untrustworthy contractors who offer to repair damaged homes.

Beware of contractors who show up unexpectedly and make claims such as:

  • “I just happened to be working in your neighborhood.”
  • “I need cash up front.”
  • “Your roof is about to collapse.”
  • “I’m giving you a special discount.”
  • “I have left over materials.”
  • “We’re going to use your home as a model.”

Before entering into any home improvement contract, make sure to get all information in writing.

Also keep in mind that you have the right to cancel a home improvement contract when it results from a door-to-door solicitation. (The contractor should provide you with a cancellation form.) If you decide to cancel, you must do so in writing within three business days from the date you receive the cancellation form.

Send your cancellation notice by certified mail, return receipt requested, or hand deliver it and obtain written proof that it was received. If you decide to cancel, the contractor must return the money you already have paid within 10 business days. Sundays and legal holidays are not considered business days.

Links:

Flood victims at risk for fraud, Attorney General warns

File a consumer complaint – Ohio Attorney General’s Office

Search consumer tips – Federal Trade Commission

Request a free Consumer Awareness Workshop – Ohio Attorney General

Sign up to receive the Consumer Advocate e-newsletter – Ohio Attorney General