The recent historic floods in Washington will require major cleanup efforts. Unfortunately, that also brings the risk of shady contractors who make promises and take money for work they never intend to do. The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries is warning homeowners to safeguard against contractor scams by using ProtectMyHome.net.
The website features a “Verify” tool to ensure a contractor is registered and has liability insurance and a business license. It also confirms whether a contractor has posted a bond, providing some financial protection if things go wrong.
According to the agency, unregistered “contractors” are usually working without a bond. If they do substandard work or fail to finish the job, it leaves the homeowner with even more problems. After a disaster, fast-talking “contractors” may show up uninvited, offering to do work for a deposit. With cash in hand, they can go on to do shoddy or partial work, or simply take the money and run. Besides verifying whether a contractor is registered, ProtectMyHome.net also includes a worksheet to use when hiring for repairs. The site also has: tips for plumbing and other home projects; information on common contractor scams; and what to do if you have problems with a contractor.
