Tips for homeowners to avoid being ripped off
AMARILLO, Texas (KVII) — Recurring storms can bring Amarillo and the Texas Panhandle much needed moisture. It also brings opportunists looking to make a quick buck, a problem that plagues homeowners throughout the spring and summer months. So what can you do to avoid becoming a victim of fraudulent contractors and roofers?
“People will take advantage of those they can, they don’t care what age you are, they don’t care what demographic you are in," said Janna Kiehl, CEO/President of BBB of Texas Panhandle.
“There will be guys to tell you whatever they think you need to hear to get a foot in the door," said Chris Andrus, president of Andrus Brothers Roofing.
Once they get a foot in the door you are vulnerable to losing your money or not having the job completed that you’ve hired someone to do. Chris Andrus is the president of Andrus Brothers Roofing, a company that started in Amarillo in 1982. He tells ABC 7 News all too often homeowners are targeted. Many are left shaking their head in disgust as to why they hired someone without proper due diligence.
“Your reputable guys will knock on your door, you just need to verify who they are and where they come from," said Andrus. "If you don’t know them, if you haven’t heard of the company or know their last name you got to verify who they tell you who they are.”
One way is to verify the address they provide and make sure a business is there with a store and supplies and not a rented office. To avoid being miss-led always make sure the business or contractor is licensed by the state and bonded by the city of Amarillo.
“Stay away from anybody that is pushing their service," said Andrus. "Stay away from anybody that is asking for money up front.”
“We have had a lot of calls from consumers who say they have given money to contractors and the contractors don’t show up," said Kiehl. "When that money is spent, its lost. We can’t get it back for you and the consumer has to go back and spend that money all over again to get the job done right.”
The Better Business Bureau of the Texas Panhandle wants to remind anyone out there contemplating hiring a contractor or roofing company to do their homework. Check with the BBB for the background information of that company and check the grade and rating provided and read about any complaints listed.
Another option when conducting a check of a business or contractor your looking to hire is the Texas Panhandle Roofing Contractors Association. You can visit their website at www.TPRCA.com
