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BBB Warns Consumers to be on the lookout for ‘Monsoon Scams’ after Storms

 

bbb-no-tag-pngTucson, AZ –After heavy monsoon rains soaked Southern Arizona on Monday, Better Business Bureau Serving Southern Arizona is cautioning consumers with property damage to do their research, and to shop around before hiring a contractor for repairs.

While storm damage can be extremely frustrating and a substantial unexpected expense, consumers should look out for scam artists passing themselves off as contractors.

“Monsoon Scammers” typically show up in the aftermath of storms at houses that sustained property damage, offering a low estimate to fix whatever damage the property sustained during the storm- whether it be roofing or landscaping. They’ll then ask for part of their fee upfront, before disappearing with the money, never to be heard from again.

Also dubbed “Storm Chasers,” these unlicensed contractors drift from city-to-city during monsoon season, attempting to scam homeowners in the aftermath of particularly violent storms.

Consumers should always research any contractor they’re considering hiring by viewing their BBB Business Review page at www.bbb.org/tucson, and by checking to make sure the contractor is licensed and in good standing with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC).

Homeowners with repair needs this monsoon season should keep in mind the following:

  • Most licensed contractors don’t wander neighborhoods knocking on doors looking for work.
  • If the person at your door claims they did work for someone else in your neighborhood, don’t just take their word for it, ask your neighbor.
  • Obtain the name and address of the company that person allegedly represents to check the company licensing with the ROC at www.azroc.gov.
  • Visit www.bbb.org/tucson and click on the Accredited Business Directory to get a list of local, BBB accredited companies to help with monsoon related repairs. All BBB Accredited Businesses are licensed, bonded and in good standing with the ROC.
  • Don’t succumb to high-pressure sale tactics in person or over the phone with contractors who offer special “monsoon” deals.
  • Do not pay cash in full before work begins.
  • Obtain multiple quotes from contractors and companies before making a final decision on who will help with the monsoon related repair.

If you have been a victim of a monsoon scam contact BBB at (520)888-5353 or email info@tucson.bbb.org. For more information on monsoon scams, and other consumer issues affecting Southern Arizona visit www.bbb.org/tucson.

About Better Business Bureau
As the leader in advancing marketplace trust, Better Business Bureau is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Every year, more than 65 million consumers rely on BBB Reliability Reports® and BBB Wise Giving Reports® to help them find trustworthy businesses and charities across North America. Visit www.tucson.bbb.org for more information.

 

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