DENVER — Thursday night's hailstorm dropped large hail across the Denver metro area, causing damage to many homes.
Many local contractors may be busier than normal with new customers meaning that some victims may be eager to hire somebody as quickly as possible. The Better Business Bureau warns residents to be on the lookout for contractors trying to take advantage of a desperate situation.
>Video above is from a 9NEWS broadcast after Thursday night's hailstorm.
Homeowners should beware of "storm chasers" and out-of-town contractors soliciting business.
Here are some things the Better Business Bureau suggests you can do to protect yourself from falling victim to potential scams:
Contact your insurance company
Ask for a copy of your specific policy and confirm the deductible you will need to pay. Your insurance company may also have recommendations for contractors.
Do your research
Check with your local government agency responsible for registering and/or licensing contractors.
Resist high-pressure sales
Avoid hastily hiring a contractor offering you "the good deal" if you hire them on the spot. Do not feel forced to make a quick decision or to chose an unknown contractor.
Be especially careful of door-to-door contractors
Ask for identification from a contractor. Check their vehicle for a business name and phone number. Look up reviews of the company.
Don't sign over insurance checks to contractors
Be sure to get an invoice from the contractor and pay them directly. Avoid signing any documents that will give the contractor rights to your insurance claims. Be sure to read all documents carefully before signing.
Be cautious of requests to pay for everything up front
Do not pay contractors in full up front. If a contractor asks for full payment of a very large down payment, this is a red flag, according to the Better Business Bureau. If you are being asked for a portion of the cost before work starts, be sure you have a signed contract in place that outlines the payments and terms.
Be wary regarding places you can't see
Be careful allowing someone you don't know to inspect places you cannot see on your own. Ask for pictures of the damage to allow you to verify that the damage happened to your home.
Get familiar with your home
Keep an eye on the conditions of the exterior of your home. Photos are a great way to document the condition of your home before a contractor examines it helping you see what needs to be repaired rather than being told what needs to be fixed by a contractor.
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