Look Out For Scammers on Hail Damage Repair
By: Import User
Updated: April 22, 2009
The hail from last week's severe weather certainly left it's mark on many of our homes and cars, but before you pay just anyone to do the repairs -- the Better Business Bureau is warning of some possible scammers in the area. It may be tempting to get those hoods and roofs fixed by a business that appears convenient and cheap -- but the BBB says that's a common scam after a storm. Last week we saw it all -- golf ball, marble -- no matter the size it still did a lot of damage to Hub City homes and vehicles. The BBB says it's after those storms that folks come into the city promising to fix the damage. Unfortunately -- the BBB says a lot of those folks are just looking to scam you. City ordinance requires every business to have a peddler's permit to work, so you should check for that before doing any business. Also, the BBB recommends getting at least 3 estimates before committing to a business. And definitely, don't pay up front or with cash. Of course, not every mobile business is bad -- you just need to be aware of what could happen. Nan Campbell, Better Business Business: "If they're knocking on your door and they're wanting money up front, if they want to do it right now, they don't give you an opportunity to check them out. Basically if they just won't let you think about it and consider it and check it out with all the others that you want to check out then that is a real tell tale red flag." Campbell says going with a local business is always your best bet, but if you're unsure about someone or a business, check first with the BBB. Their website is BBB.org to find a list of accredited businesses.
