With Michigan experiencing extreme cold, Attorney General Dana Nessel offers practical advice to residents to safeguard their wits and wallets against opportunistic scammers. As the state hunkers down, Nessel cautions homeowners to be vigilant before they quickly hire contractors for emergency repairs, which might stem from the harsh weather damaging their property.
"Fraudsters often look for emergency situations to scam people out of their hard-earned money," stated Nessel, reminding us that when faced with property damage due to a severe cold, the last thing anyone needs is to become a victim of a scam. As the Michigan Department of Attorney General reported, she recommends that individuals research thoroughly before making any hasty decisions.
To help Michiganders identify potential scammers, Nessel shared a list of red flags to consider: overly enticing offers, pressure to make immediate decisions, confusing contracts, lack of license and references, demand for up-front payment or cash-only deals, unwillingness to provide a written offer, and contractors operating vehicles with out-of-state license plates or without business signage. These warning signs are pivotal in differentiating legitimate contractors from those who might not be trustworthy.
As a rule of thumb, residents should always take certain steps to protect themselves: checking online reviews, consulting with insurance companies, seeking out local licensed professionals, verifying credentials, obtaining multiple written estimates, and insisting on a clear contract to read well in advance.
If residents have complaints or need further assistance, they are encouraged to contact the Consumer Protection Team. You can reach them by mail at P.O. Box 30213, Lansing, MI 48909, by phone at 517-335-7599, or by toll-free at 877-765-8388.
