Some buildings with fire damage.

Home Contractor Scams

 See more resources on how to avoid Scams and Fraud:
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Contractors From Hell.com (opens new window)
This website provides information and resources on the do’s and don’t’s of home remodeling, hiring contractors, and homeowners rights.  The author shares her story (opens new window) of dealing with a home improvement contractor illustrating why homeowners must take responsibility to ensure they are not violated by unethical contractors.

Video: Customer says contractor stole her jewelry

It’s always a good idea to store valuables in a safe place, possibly even out of house, if you have work done in your home.

Video: Derrick Burrell “Crooked Contractor” Arrested Again While Free on Bail

Derrick Burrell continues to rob Queens Homeowners while free on bail.

Video: Beware of Warren Pointer Restoration Insurance Fraud

Warren Pointer Restoration is performing work with no license leaving victims without recourse.

Video: How to Avoid Being Scammed by a Public Adjuster

Simple advice to save thousands of dollars.

Consumer warnings about public adjusters
Read this couple’s recovery story.  Instead of helping matters, the public adjuster they hired made the claims process longer, messier, and much more frustrating.

Traveling Contractor Scams (opens new window)
A tip sheet from the Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov about how to recognize contracting criminals who rip off homeowners.

How do I avoid scams and fraud after a disaster?
This article by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, provides tips on avoiding scams, and questions to ask before hiring any contracting service after a disaster.

After A Disaster Don’t Get Scammed (opens new window)
Tips provided by the Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov before you hire a contractor.

Hunt on for Woman Accused of Stealing $5 Million from Fire Victims (opens new window)
This news story about the hunt for a contractor scam artist is a clear example of how they use sympathy and comfort as a way to take advantage of those who are vulnerable.  This scam artist attended community support meetings to prey on their victims.

Video: Home Repair Scams – by Consumer Connection

The Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection offers these tips on how to choose the right contractor for your job.

Attorney General Warns of Scams in Aftermath of Waldo Canyon Fire (opens new window)
An article in the Colorado Springs Business Journal encourages people to report scams that prey on their good intentions.

What Seniors Should Know (opens new window)
Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov pamphlet on what senior citizens should know before hiring a contractor and information about common contractor scams.

Don’t Get Burned After A Disaster (opens new window)
Booklet provided by The California Department of Insurance at www.insurance.ca.gov regarding contractor scams.

National Center for the Prevention of Home Improvement Fraud (opens new window)
The NCPHIF is a nonprofit organization with a mission to educate homeowners before, during and after a home improvement or home repair project, to greatly reduce the chances of victimization or fraud and claim communities as Contractor “Fraud-Free Zones.”

Contractors Board Warns Consumers About Unlicensed Contractors After Disasters (opens new window)
Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov warns consumers about unlicensed contractors who often prey on victims of natural disasters.

Video: Contractor Scams by NICB

After a disaster, contractors and others will often go door-to-door in neighborhoods which have sustained damage to offer clean up and/or construction and repair services. Most of these business people are reputable, but many are not. Watch these important tips for disaster survivors by the National Insurance Crime Bureau…”if you didn’t request it, reject it!”

Video: Check the License First.com by CLSB

Don’t miss this video that gives a great illustration to why you should always check the contractor’s license first.

National Center for the Prevention of Home Improvement Fraud (opens new window)
The NCPHIF is a nonprofit organization with a mission to educate homeowners before, during and after a home improvement or home repair project, to greatly reduce the chances of victimization or fraud and claim communities as Contractor “Fraud-Free Zones.”

Avoid Post Disaster Scams (opens new window)
Overview of common disaster scams provided by the District Attorney of Monterey County, California at www.co.monterey.ca.us

Debris Removal & Construction Scams (opens new window)
Facts from the Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov regarding debris removal and construction scams, including how to check a contractor’s license.

Video: Disaster Victims Beware – Crooked Contractors

The Insurance Information Institute offers basic guidelines before rebuilding after a natural disaster.

Video: Identifying Disaster Fraud & Scams by FEMA

Advice and red flag warnings when dealing with contractors, especially after a disaster.