Spring is great time for Home Improvement…and scammers!

Spring is a popular time for home improvement projects as many homeowners are receiving their tax refunds and beginning maintenance for both inside and outside homes.

Additionally, the spring season can sometimes bring extreme weather, resulting in storm damage. Throughout this time, homeowners who are repairing their homes or are planning to use their tax refunds to cover the costs of home remodeling projects are advised to be on the lookout for scams.

Before hiring a home improvement business, consider these tips:

1. Check out a business. We recommend ASK THE SEAL. You can do online searches to read complaints and reviews, and find out more information. 
2. Get multiple estimates. Before accepting an estimate, get at least three bids or quotes in writing. Don’t feel pressured to go with the lowest bid, as it might reflect the quality of materials.
3. Ask for references. Ask for at least two or three references from the business’ last few jobs and ask questions about the quality of work, if it was within budget and on time, and to the customer’s satisfaction.
4. Check out licenses. Be sure to check if the business is properly licensed in Florida. It’s also important that any business you hire is properly insured if working on your home.
5. Get everything in writing. Do not sign a contract until you have read through it entirely. If you made verbal agreements, they should be included in the written contract. Any deposit or payment plans should be included, as well as any warranties or guarantees.
6. Never sign a blank or partially completed contract. Also, be aware that for sales made at your home, you may cancel the contract within three days without any penalty, per Florida law. LEARN MORE HERE.
7. Do not pay for the entire job in advance. Do not make the full payment up front or pay cash to a salesperson or contractor. Typically, a down payment of 30 to 50 percent of the total contract price is made before the work is started with remaining payments to be made after completion of each phase of work; final payment should not be made until work is completed and you have inspected the work.